Justice Is the Bedrock of Development, Kano Governor
Abba Kabir Yusuf, Governor of Kano State, has emphasised that justice, fairness and accountability are fundamental to good governance and sustainable development. Speaking at the annual dinner and awards night organised by CREED in Abuja, where he was honoured as “Best Governor of the Year”, Yusuf insisted that no society can genuinely progress without a strong and functional rule of law.
Reforms to Strengthen Justice System
He explained that his administration has already initiated sweeping reforms in the state’s justice and custodial system to address issues like prolonged detention without trial, delayed court cases, and limited access to legal representation for detainees. The governor said review of detention facilities uncovered “deeply troubling cases” of inmates remaining in custody for years without any trial, case files or legal representation.
As part of the reforms, the administration plans to expand legal-aid services, formalise volunteer and pro-bono networks to ensure fairness, asserting that “justice should never depend on wealth or influence.”
Justice + Infrastructure = Broader Development
Beyond the legal system, Governor Yusuf argued that justice must work hand-in-hand with infrastructure and good governance to drive real development. He highlighted that while roads, schools, hospitals and urban-renewal projects remain priorities, without justice and accountability the benefits may hardly reach citizens, undermining public trust and long-term progress.
Why It Matters
The governor’s remarks come at a time when many Nigerians are calling for reforms that combine strong institutions, transparency, and inclusive growth. By placing justice at the core of his administration’s agenda, Yusuf is signalling a commitment to ensuring that governance, not just physical development, caters to equity, fairness, and the rule of law. This could help improve citizens’ trust, strengthen human rights protections, and foster more sustainable socioeconomic growth in Kano.