Kano Governor Nominates Murtala Sule Garo as New Deputy Governor

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State and Murtala Sule Garo

Kano Governor Nominates Murtala Sule Garo as New Deputy Governor

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has forwarded the name of Murtala Sule Garo to the Kano State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation as the new Deputy Governor of Kano State, following the resignation of his predecessor.

The nomination was confirmed in a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mustapha Muhammad, who said the decision was made in line with Section 191(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers a governor to appoint a replacement when the office of deputy governor becomes vacant.

The vacancy arose after the resignation of former Deputy Governor Abdussalam Gwarzo on March 27, 2026, creating a constitutional obligation for the governor to nominate a successor for legislative approval.

Governor cites consultations and need for stability

According to the statement, Governor Yusuf said the nomination followed wide consultations with key stakeholders across Kano State. He urged the State Assembly to expedite the screening and confirmation process to ensure continuity in governance and strengthen administrative stability.

Profile of Murtala Sule Garo

Murtala Sule Garo, aged 48, is a seasoned politician and administrator with extensive experience in governance and public service in Kano State. Over the years, he has held several strategic positions, including State Organising Secretary of his political party, Special Adviser to the Governor, and Chairman of Kabo Local Government Area.

He also served as Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Kano State chapter, and later as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, where he played a key role in grassroots administration and local governance reforms.

Politically, Garo was also the deputy governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2023 general elections, making him a familiar figure in Kano’s political landscape.

Assembly screening and next steps

The nomination now awaits screening and confirmation by the Kano State House of Assembly, which is expected to assess the nominee’s credentials and suitability in accordance with constitutional provisions.

If confirmed, Garo will officially assume office as Deputy Governor of Kano State, becoming the second-highest executive officer in the state government.

Political significance of the nomination

Analysts say the nomination is a strategic move aimed at strengthening governance and ensuring continuity in leadership following the resignation of the former deputy governor. It is also expected to help stabilize the political structure within the state administration.

Observers note that the deputy governor’s role is crucial in supporting executive decision-making, coordinating government activities, and ensuring smooth governance delivery across ministries and agencies.

For now, attention remains focused on the Kano State House of Assembly as stakeholders await the outcome of the confirmation process.