Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has removed Abdullahi Musa from his position as Head of Service, effective immediately, in a move aimed at revitalising the state’s civil service. The announcement was made in a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Dawakin-Tofa, on Wednesday.
The decision is part of a broader administrative effort to enhance efficiency, discipline, and service delivery across government institutions in Kano. “This realignment is crucial for repositioning our civil service to meet contemporary governance challenges,” the statement noted, framing the change as a step in an ongoing reform process.
Governor Yusuf expressed gratitude to Mr. Musa for his service during his tenure. “We wish him the best in his future endeavours and pray for his continued success in all aspects of life,” the spokesperson quoted the governor as saying.
Simultaneously, Bilkisu Shehu-Maimota, currently the Permanent Secretary for Administration and General Services at the Cabinet Office, has been appointed to act as Head of Service. The outgoing head has been directed to hand over the office’s affairs to her immediately.
Kano, Nigeria’s second-largest state by population and a major economic hub, has long faced scrutiny over the performance of its civil service. Governor Yusuf’s administration has previously pledged to implement structural reforms targeting bureaucratic bottlenecks. This leadership change signals a continuation of that agenda, focusing on senior management within the state’s administrative machinery.
The appointment of an acting head from within the Cabinet Office suggests an interim measure while the governor’s office evaluates longer-term structural adjustments. The handover process is expected to be completed promptly, ensuring continuity in state operations. The development underscores the governor’s intent to drive change within Kano’s public sector, with further appointments or policy shifts anticipated as the reform programme advances.
