In a move aimed at fortifying the administrative backbone of his government, Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has appointed Umar Farouk Ibrahim as the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
The announcement was made in an official statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Saturday, with the appointment set to take effect on Monday, February 10, 2025.
Governor Yusuf’s decision to appoint Ibrahim is rooted in the latter’s extensive experience, strategic insight, and deep understanding of governance. With over 36 years in public service, Ibrahim has been a key player in shaping policies and strengthening administrative structures within Kano State.
His journey in civil service, spanning from 1987 to 2023, is decorated with high-profile leadership roles that have left an indelible mark on governance. His tenure as Permanent Secretary for Research, Evaluation, and Political Affairs (2001–2015) saw him spearhead critical policy assessments, advise top government officials, and oversee the execution of strategic initiatives across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
Following this, he led the Administration and General Services Directorate as Permanent Secretary from 2015 to 2016, a role that underscored his exceptional leadership and administrative prowess. His expertise and reliability were further acknowledged when he was twice appointed as acting SSG in 2013 and 2014 during official transitions.
Beyond his formal roles, Ibrahim has been deeply involved in key governmental committees, showcasing his ability to drive reforms and policy execution. He served as:
Secretary of the Coordinating Committee on Independent Power (2012–2015) – playing a crucial role in Kano’s energy strategy.
Secretary of the Committee on the Identification and Sale of Government Property (2012) – ensuring transparency in public asset management.
Secretary of the State Payroll Standing Committee (2000–2004) – helping to sanitize the state’s payroll system and enhance financial accountability.
His contributions to inter-community relations and education reforms are also noteworthy. In 1998, he was the Secretary of the Inter-Community/Religious Consultative Forum, fostering peaceful coexistence in Kano. His role in the 1994 Committee on the Review of the Operations of the Agency for Mass Education demonstrated his commitment to education and literacy advancement.
Umar Farouk Ibrahim holds a B.Sc. in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University (1985), complemented by numerous professional certifications that have further honed his expertise in governance, policy analysis, and administration.
As a seasoned administrator and a retired Permanent Secretary, his appointment is widely seen as a strategic move by Governor Yusuf to reinforce his administration’s development agenda. Ibrahim is expected to bring efficiency, transparency, and innovation to the state’s governance, ensuring that key policies and programs are executed with precision.
Governor Yusuf has expressed confidence in Ibrahim’s ability to drive Kano State’s progress, emphasizing that his leadership will play a pivotal role in achieving the administration’s vision for sustainable development and good governance.
With this appointment, Kano State’s governance is set to gain from Ibrahim’s vast experience and unwavering dedication to public service.
PIONEER NEWS 