The Kano State Government has confirmed a directive issued by Governor Abba Yusuf, instructing Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to temporarily halt sending files to his office. According to the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ibrahim, this decision is a fiscal control measure aimed at preventing unauthorized expenditures and ensuring adherence to due process.
The directive was issued in late December, as the 2024 Appropriation Law was nearing expiration and the 2025 budget was still under legislative consideration. Ibrahim explained that this measure is a prudent step to avoid illegal financial commitments and potential audit queries. He emphasized that government business has continued uninterrupted, with essential services such as security, healthcare, and education remaining fully operational under existing statutory provisions and standing approvals.
The temporary pause on new discretionary matters is intended to prevent the culture of end-of-year rush approvals that often undermine transparency and fiscal discipline. Ibrahim stated that the government is committed to transparency, effective service delivery, and prudent management of public resources. He assured the public that once the transitional administrative reviews are concluded, appropriate directives will be issued to guide the next phase of executive operations.
The Kano State Government has denied claims that the directive has grounded public administration in the state. Instead, Ibrahim described the decision as a responsible administrative and fiscal control measure, taken to protect the state from future legal exposure. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to responsible leadership, discipline, and respect for the rule of law.
The directive has been in place since late December, and the state government is working to ensure a smooth transition to the new fiscal framework. The government’s decision to halt new discretionary spending is in line with established principles of public finance, which dictate that no new spending commitments should be undertaken in the absence of a valid appropriation law. As the state government navigates this transition, it remains focused on delivering essential services to the public and upholding its commitment to transparency and accountability.
