On this momentous occasion of your birthday, I, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, joins millions of admirers across Nigeria and beyond to celebrate Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, OFR, a truly remarkable leader, visionary statesman, and consummate administrator.
Your enduring legacy of public service, spanning decades, reflects an unwavering commitment to good governance, social justice, and national unity.
From your early days in the National Party of Nigeria (NPN) to your transformative tenure as the Deputy Governor of Kano State (1999–2003 and 2011–2015), and later as Governor of Kano State (2015–2023), your contributions to the progress and development of our nation remain indelible.
Born in 1949 in the historic village of Ganduje, Dawakin Tofa Local Government Area, Kano State, your life story is one of resilience, dedication, and excellence.
You began your educational journey in Qur’anic and Islamiyya schools before excelling at prestigious institutions such as Government College Birnin Kudu, Advanced Teachers’ College Kano, and Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where you earned degrees in Science Education and Public Administration.
Your pursuit of academic excellence culminated in a doctorate in Public Administration from the University of Ibadan, equipping you with the intellectual foundation to lead with wisdom and foresight.
As Governor of Kano State, your administration was marked by groundbreaking policies and initiatives that improved the lives of millions. From infrastructure development to education reforms, health sector improvements, and economic empowerment programs, you set a high standard of governance.
Notably, your efforts to decentralize the Kano Emirate structure showcased your boldness in addressing sensitive issues for the greater good of the people.
Your leadership as National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has been transformative. You have galvanized the party machinery into a cohesive force capable of winning critical off-cycle elections and steering the nation toward greater unity and progress.
Under your stewardship, the APC has evolved into a robust institution that can provide sustainable governance for generations to come.
Your vision and strategic insights continue to strengthen our democracy and solidify the APC’s role as a vehicle for national development.
It is also important to celebrate your enduring influence on those privileged to work with and learn from you. As the Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly during your first tenure as Governor, I witnessed firsthand your dedication to collaborative governance and your passion for creating opportunities for all.
Your mentorship has shaped many leaders and continues to inspire future generations.
On this joyous occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to you, Dr. Ganduje. As the entire nation joins in celebrating your life and legacy, may Almighty Allah bless you with continued good health, wisdom, and the strength to achieve even greater milestones in the service of our country and humanity.
Happy Birthday to a true statesman and a father to many!
Credit: Seyi Olorunsola
