Kano Gov denies wheelbarrow empowerment claims

Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano has clarified that the wheelbarrows seen being loaded onto trucks are not intended as empowerment tools.

This follows social media claims that the wheelbarrows, featured in a viral video, were meant for youth empowerment.

In a statement posted on X on Wednesday, Yusuf explained that the wheelbarrows are designated for the 2024 drainage clearance exercise and will be distributed to community development associations throughout the state.

“These are clearly not empowerment materials, but tools we recently distributed to community development associations in Kano for the 2024 Kano Drainage Clearance Exercise,” the governor said.

Yusuf also highlighted his administration’s efforts in youth development, noting that many young people are currently enrolled in the Aliko Dangote Skills Acquisition Institute, where they are learning modern technical skills. He pointed out that his administration has reopened 26 tertiary and entrepreneurial institutions that were closed for eight years. These institutions, currently undergoing remodeling and renovation, are expected to offer opportunities for thousands of youths in various fields such as agriculture, IT, education, security, and sports.

Additionally, Yusuf mentioned that over 1,000 first-class graduates are pursuing master’s degrees in India and Uganda under the state’s sponsorship. He also emphasized that Kano State undergraduate students receive free tuition, not loans.

The governor urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information and to avoid spreading misinformation.