As Kano State lawmakers consider the 2026 budget, the state government says administrative activities have continued without disruption, dismissing reports that governance has stalled following a directive restricting the submission of files to the governor’s office.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ibrahim, explained that the directive issued by Governor Abba Yusuf in late December was a routine administrative step tied to fiscal controls, rather than a sign of a breakdown in public administration. He said the measure coincided with the expiration of the 2025 Appropriation Law and the absence of a new budget, necessitating caution in approving matters with financial implications.
According to the government, the temporary restriction was intended to prevent unauthorised expenditure, improper financial commitments and possible audit concerns during the budget transition period. Ibrahim stated that no new spending commitments should be undertaken without a valid appropriation framework in place.
The SSG noted that the directive only paused the escalation of new discretionary matters to the governor, while Ministries, Departments and Agencies continue to operate within their statutory mandates and existing approvals. He added that essential services, including security, healthcare, education and sanitation, have remained fully operational.
The government further explained that the decision was also aimed at curbing the customary end-of-year rush for executive approvals, which it said often undermines fiscal discipline and accountability.
Describing reports of administrative paralysis as inaccurate, the state government said the measure was a lawful precaution taken to ensure compliance with financial regulations. It assured residents that additional guidance would be issued once the ongoing administrative reviews are concluded and reaffirmed its commitment to transparent governance and effective service delivery in Kano State.
