By Hon. Seyi Olorunsola
Kano witnessed a historic spectacle on Saturday as the newly appointed Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata returned to his hometown for the first time since assuming office.
In a show of solidarity and celebration, a massive crowd turned up at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport to welcome Ata, shutting down parts of the city and transforming the streets into vibrant scenes of festivity.
From the moment he alighted from the aircraft that brought him from Abuja, the crowd erupted in cheers, with an atmosphere of jubilation reverberating through the airport grounds.
Thousands of supporters, well-wishers, and residents from all walks of life gathered, filling the air with chants, songs, and drumming to honor Ata’s homecoming. The welcoming ceremony, which was expected to be brief, extended well over two hours due to the overwhelming turnout.
Surrounded by security personnel and party officials, the convoy finally managed to exit the airport at a slow pace, as throngs of excited citizens lined the route from the airport to the city center, eager to catch a glimpse of the new minister.
As the convoy entered Kano’s city center, colorful cultural displays from diverse ethnic groups brought an additional layer of celebration. Traditional dancers from the Yoruba, Igbo, and Tiv communities lined the streets, each group showcasing its heritage and paying homage to the minister.
With such a diverse display of cultural unity, Rt. Hon. Ata’s homecoming represented more than a ministerial visit—it became a symbol of unity, bridging cultural lines and reaffirming Kano’s reputation as a city rich in both diversity and harmony.
The streets of Kano bore a fresh look, adorned with banners, posters, and billboards bearing the minister’s portrait, often accompanied by images of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The visuals served as a strong statement of solidarity, suggesting a renewed political direction for the city under the current administration.
The community’s excitement reflects the political shift that Ata’s appointment has brought to Kano, bolstering support for the All Progressives Congress (APC) and adding momentum to the president’s influence in the region.
Ata’s role as Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development is seen as a critical addition to Tinubu’s cabinet, particularly with Kano being a significant political hub.
Given Ata’s popularity and influence, local leaders believe that his appointment has the potential to sway Kano’s political landscape favorably toward the APC in the 2027 general elections.
Many see him as a figure capable of uniting the region, particularly after the APC experienced a dip in morale following the 2023 elections.
“The Minister’s appointment brings renewed hope for Kano. It is a fresh opportunity to revitalize the housing and urban development sectors, areas where he has promised to make significant improvements.
But beyond that, Hon. Ata’s personality and unifying presence are invaluable assets that the APC can leverage,” said Ibrahim Musa, a local party leader.
He further expressed optimism that Ata’s strong followership would restore the APC’s momentum, particularly in Kano, where the party seeks to secure a stronger foothold in future elections.
During a brief address at the airport, Rt. Hon. Ata expressed his gratitude to the people of Kano for their warm reception, noting that his return to Kano was a dream fulfilled.
He pledged his commitment to addressing the state’s housing and infrastructure needs while ensuring that all projects align with President Tinubu’s vision for sustainable urban development.
“I am honored to be here today, welcomed by my people. Kano is close to my heart, and I am committed to driving development in a way that truly benefits this great city and its residents,” Ata said, to enthusiastic applause.
Ata’s return has undoubtedly re-energized the APC’s local base, with many residents hopeful that his influence will usher in new development projects for Kano.
His tenure at the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development is expected to prioritize affordable housing and infrastructure development, a much-needed intervention for the growing population of the city.
As a political figure, Ata has been known for his inclusive leadership style and ability to rally diverse groups, qualities that make him a significant asset for both the APC and the President.
Observers suggest that his broad appeal and reputation for fairness could be pivotal in galvanizing the state’s support for the APC. Many view his appointment as a strategic move that not only strengthens the APC’s standing in Kano but also serves as a testament to the Tinubu administration’s commitment to inclusivity and progress.
With today’s grand reception, Kano has sent a resounding message of support for Rt. Hon. Yusuf Abdullahi Ata and, by extension, for President Tinubu’s government.
The overwhelming turnout underscores the trust and hope placed in Ata’s leadership as he embarks on his ministerial responsibilities.
His homecoming celebration has marked a moment of unity and optimism in Kano, one that the APC will likely look to harness as it prepares for future electoral contests.
As Ata assumes his duties in housing and urban development, Kano residents are optimistic that his commitment will translate into tangible benefits for the city.
His reception today is not only a mark of his popularity but also a testament to the profound political and social impact he is poised to have on Kano’s future.
