Yusuf Abdullahi Ata, Nigeria’s new Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, has sparked a lively debate following his statement that his ministerial role is part of a strategic effort to reclaim Kano State for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the 2027 elections.

During his first official visit to Kano since his swearing-in, Ata expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment, describing it as a deliberate move to strengthen APC’s presence in Kano, according to Daily Trust.

“My appointment was primarily for political reasons. APC has lost Kano State, and now it will take Kano State back,” Ata remarked. “The main challenge lies in Kano Central, and I am from there.”

Ata outlined his commitment to supporting APC’s efforts, promising to spend considerable time in Kano to solidify the party’s influence. “Even as a minister, I will continue to work from this Ward. We are going to work very hard to ensure that APC gains control of Kano State by 2027,” he affirmed.

He also expressed that his appointment is not solely for his own benefit but is meant to serve the people of Kano and Nigeria at large, as noted by Vanguard.

Ata’s statements have drawn a range of reactions from Nigerians, with some citizens expressing concern over a government appointment being openly framed as a political maneuver, while others praised Ata’s dedication to bolstering his party’s standing in a key state.