KANO — Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has relieved the Kano State Head of Service, Abdullahi Musa, of his appointment with immediate effect as part of efforts to overhaul the state’s civil service.
The development was announced in a statement issued by the Director-General, Media and Publicity to the Governor, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, who said the decision forms part of the administration’s broader reforms aimed at repositioning the civil service for efficiency, discipline and improved service delivery across government institutions.
According to the statement, the move underscores the determination of the administration of Governor Yusuf to strengthen governance structures and ensure that the state’s bureaucracy operates with renewed professionalism and accountability.
Despite the abrupt removal, the governor expressed appreciation to the outgoing Head of Service for his commitment and contributions during his time in office.
He acknowledged Abdullahi Musa’s dedication to the service of Kano State, noting that his efforts toward public administration are recognized by the government.
In the interim, Governor Yusuf approved the appointment of Bilkisu Shehu Maimota, the Permanent Secretary for Administration and General Services at the Cabinet Office, to serve as Acting Head of Service pending the appointment of a substantive replacement.
The government said Maimota’s appointment in acting capacity is expected to ensure continuity in the operations of the civil service while the process for selecting a new Head of Service is underway.
“She is to oversee the activities of the office and maintain administrative stability during this transition period,” the statement noted.
Governor Yusuf has in recent months reiterated his administration’s commitment to civil service reforms, stressing that the state bureaucracy must evolve to meet the demands of modern governance and deliver efficient public services to residents.
Observers say the latest move signals the government’s resolve to inject renewed discipline and productivity into the state’s public service system. Analysts also view the appointment of a seasoned permanent secretary to steer the office temporarily as a measure aimed at avoiding disruption in administrative processes.
The statement further directed the outgoing Head of Service to formally hand over the affairs of the office to the Acting Head of Service on or before Wednesday, March 11, 2026.
Government sources indicated that the transition is expected to be smooth, with the new acting leadership focusing on maintaining operational continuity across ministries, departments and agencies.
The Kano State civil service remains a central pillar of governance in the state, responsible for implementing policies and programmes of the administration.
With the latest leadership change, stakeholders anticipate further reforms and administrative adjustments that could redefine the structure and efficiency of the state’s civil service in the coming months.
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