Rabiu Kwankwaso, the 2023 presidential candidate of the New Nigeria’s People Party, has reaffirmed that Muhammadu Sanusi II is the legitimate emir of Kano. Speaking at the fourth convocation ceremony of Skyline University of Nigeria, Mr. Kwankwaso stated that any other claimants to the throne who were installed from outside the state lack legitimacy in the eyes of the people and the government of Kano.

The former governor commended the university’s management for its commitment to quality education and congratulated the graduating class, noting that over 60 percent of the graduates were female. He encouraged young men to take their studies seriously, warning that failure to do so could result in women taking the lead in key areas of national development.

Mr. Kwankwaso also addressed the deteriorating security challenges facing Kano and other parts of the country, urging President Bola Tinubu to tackle the issue head-on. He expressed concern over the infiltration of terrorists into Kano through border communities, emphasizing that the government must prioritize the protection of lives and properties.

The security challenge, which originated in Zamfara, has spread to neighboring states, including Sokoto, Kebbi, Kaduna, and now threatens Kano and Jigawa. Mr. Kwankwaso recalled his own efforts to address security concerns during his tenure as governor and urged the current administration to intensify its efforts to secure all Nigerians.

Muhammadu Sanusi II, who serves as Chancellor of the university, advised the graduating students to uphold integrity, innovation, and service. He emphasized that the true value of education lies not in certificates but in the positive impact graduates make in society. Mr. Sanusi praised the university’s progress and expressed delight at the high number of female graduates, hoping it would lead to increased participation of women in governance and other sectors.

The convocation ceremony highlighted the importance of education and security in Nigeria’s development. As the country continues to face security challenges, leaders like Mr. Kwankwaso and Mr. Sanusi are emphasizing the need for urgent action to protect lives and properties. The graduation of a new cohort of students, with a significant proportion of women, also underscores the potential for education to drive positive change in Nigerian society.