A former Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Abdullahi Tijjani Mohammed Gwarzo, has announced his intention to contest the Kano North Senatorial seat in the 2027 general elections, setting up a potential political contest with the Deputy President of the Senate, Barau Jibrin.

Gwarzo made the declaration while addressing supporters in Kano, where he formally accepted calls to join the race.

He told the gathering that his long record in public service positions him as the most experienced candidate for the seat.

According to him, his political career includes serving as chairman of Gwarzo Local Government for multiple terms, as well as holding positions as deputy governor and minister.

He stated that his experience would translate into tangible benefits for constituents across Kano North.

The former minister highlighted a vocational training initiative he said he introduced, which currently supports about 100 youths with skills acquisition and a monthly stipend.

He pledged to expand the programme across all 18 local government areas in the senatorial district, arguing that such interventions would help reduce youth involvement in social vices.

Gwarzo also cited his contributions to infrastructure and human development projects during his time in office, including rural and urban electrification and the establishment of training centres.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for policies under the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly the Nigeria Education Loan Fund, which he said has increased access to education for young Nigerians.

He also referenced ongoing infrastructure projects such as the Kano–Kaduna–Abuja highway, the AKK gas pipeline, and regional rail developments, describing them as critical to economic growth in northern Nigeria.

Reflecting on his tenure as minister between 2023 and 2024, Gwarzo said he contributed to housing sector reforms, including the Renewed Hope Cities and Estates initiative and policy reviews aimed at improving urban development.

At the event, a former commissioner and local government chairman, Muntari Isha Yakasai, advised Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to consider appointing Murtala Sule Garo as deputy governor, describing him as capable of supporting governance and maintaining stability in the state.

The Kano North senatorial contest is expected to draw significant attention ahead of the 2027 elections, given the profile of the contenders involved.

(Nigerian Tribune)