Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with China and France as part of ongoing efforts to attract economic growth and development opportunities.
The governor made the move during an unscheduled inspection visit to two bilingual colleges in Kwankwaso town, Madobi Local Government Area, where Chinese and French languages are taught.
The colleges were originally established during the second tenure of former governor Rabi’u Kwankwaso to produce home-grown linguists proficient in Mandarin and French. However, they reportedly fell into disrepair after being abandoned by the immediate past administration of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
A statement on Sunday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin-Tofa, quoted Yusuf as expressing dissatisfaction with the dilapidated state of the schools, which he blamed on years of neglect and lack of maintenance.
“The condition of these institutions is unacceptable. They were set up with a clear vision to provide our young people with internationally relevant language skills. We will not allow that vision to be wasted,” the governor was quoted as saying.
Yusuf, who described the institutions as critical to Kano’s global commercial identity, directed the immediate renovation and comprehensive upgrade of the schools to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment.
He also announced a scholarship scheme for the best graduating students from both schools to further their education in China and France.
“We will sponsor our most outstanding students to pursue advanced studies abroad. This will not only enhance their prospects but also position them as global citizens who can return and contribute meaningfully to Kano’s socio-economic growth,” he added.
The governor emphasised the strategic importance of Mandarin and French, noting that proficiency in both languages would give Kano’s youth a competitive edge in international trade and diplomacy.
Two students, Muhammad Bawa and Muhammad Warawa, who spoke during the visit, hailed the governor’s intervention as timely and commendable.
“We appreciate the governor’s commitment. His visit and promises have given us hope and motivation,” said Warawa.
Yusuf’s visit is part of a broader drive to reposition Kano as a forward-looking, internationally engaged state with robust educational and economic infrastructure.
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