Kano APC Picks Former Commissioner Doguwa As Chairman

The immediate past Commissioner for Water Resources in Kano State, Umar Haruna Doguwa, has been elected as the state chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The election took place during the party’s state congress in Kano on Wednesday morning.

According to political analysts, delegates from all 44 local government areas endorsed Doguwa and other consensus candidates through a voice vote, in a process supervised by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which party leaders said enhanced the credibility of the exercise.

The chairmanship position had been zoned to Kano South Senatorial District, Doguwa’s home zone, in accordance with the party’s internal arrangements. He succeeds Abdullahi Abbas, who led the party as state chairman for approximately ten years.

Doguwa resigned from his position as Commissioner for Water Resources in Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf’s cabinet prior to contesting for the chairmanship. His election is regarded by party stakeholders as part of a broader realignment within the APC structure in the state.

Rabiu Bichi, Chairman of the State Congress Committee, disclosed that 2,420 accredited delegates participated in the congress. He described the exercise as a reflection of internal party democracy and commended members for their orderly conduct, noting that the presence of INEC officials strengthened the legitimacy of the process.

In his acceptance speech, Doguwa expressed gratitude to party leaders and delegates for their confidence in him. “I am humbled by the trust of our delegates and party leaders. My focus will be to unite every member and strengthen our structures across Kano State,” he said, pledging to prioritize unity and inclusiveness ahead of future political contests.

Outgoing chairman Abdullahi Abbas described the congress as a joyous moment for the party, thanking members for their support over his decade-long tenure and encouraging continued cooperation with the new leadership. Governor Yusuf also congratulated the newly elected executives, emphasizing the importance of discipline, unity, and commitment to achieving the party’s shared vision in Kano State.

Other officials elected at the congress include Salisu Majje Ahmed Gwangwazo as Deputy Chairman; Prof. Yusuf Mohammed as Secretary; Nura Yaro as Assistant Secretary; Abdul Adamu (SAN) as Legal Adviser; Bashir Yusuf as Assistant Legal Adviser; and Farouq Abdullahi Garo as Financial Secretary. Salisu Yahaya was elected Youth Leader; Musadiq Wazari as Assistant Youth Leader; Abubakar Salisu as Auditor; and Hajiya Fatima Abdullahi Dala as Women Leader, among others. The newly elected officials were sworn in at the conclusion of the congress amid celebrations from party members.