APC gains 29th governor as Abba Yusuf joins ruling party

What Happened
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) — the ruling party in Nigeria. His defection took place on Monday, 26 January 2026, at a formal event in Kano. 

Abba Yusuf left the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), the party on whose platform he was elected governor, before rejoining APC. 

His move has been welcomed by many APC members and leaders who see it as strengthening the party in Kano and aligning Kano state more closely with the federal government. 

Who Was Involved
Former APC National Chairman and ex-Governor of Kano, Abdullahi Ganduje, and Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin were part of the ceremony welcoming him into APC. 

Alongside the governor, multiple lawmakers and local government chairmen also joined the APC, boosting the party’s presence in the state legislature. 

Why It Matters
This shift is seen as a major political realignment in Kano, with the ruling party now gaining the governorship from the NNPP in one of Nigeria’s most politically significant states. 

It could influence political dynamics leading up to the 2027 elections, especially within the state.