Kano gets new Chief of Staff, DG Special Services

By Maduabuchi Nmeribeh/Kano

Kano state Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved the appointment of Dr. Suleiman Wali Sani, as the new Chief of Staff, Government House.

Dr. Sani succeeded Alhaji Shehu Shagagi who was moved to the Ministry of Commerce and Investment where he is currently serving as Commissioner.

A Statement by Governor Yusuf’s Spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, also indicated that Major General Mohammed Sani (Rtd.) has been appointed to serve as the Director General, Special Services, Government House.

Mohammed succeeded AVM Ibrahim Umar (rtd), who is currently serving as the Commissioner for Internal Security and Special Services.

The new Chief of Staff is an accomplished Medical Doctor, policy expert, and retired Permanent Secretary, with over four decades of distinguished public service.

Until his latest appointment, he served as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Civil Service Matters.

A graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, with MB, BS degrees, Dr. Sani further enhanced his leadership credentials with a diploma from Bayero University, Kano, and the prestigious mni certificate from the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS), Kuru.

Over the years, he held several top administrative positions, including Director General in the Ministries of Health and Commerce, Executive Secretary, and Permanent Secretary in key state institutions.

He also led major state hospitals such as the Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital and Muhammad Abdullahi Wase Specialist Hospital as Chief Medical Director.

Throughout his career, Dr. Sani has contributed immensely to health policy, civil service reform, and social development, participating in over 40 state and national committees and representing Nigeria in international medical and administrative assignments.

He is widely respected for his commitment to public service, professional excellence, and community development.

The new Director General, Special Services, Major General Mohammed Sani is highly decorated retired infantry officer with over 35 years of service in the Nigerian Army.

He held several key command and staff positions and played critical roles in peacekeeping, conflict resolution and national security operations.

He is a seasoned military officer, who served the Nigerian Army in various strategic and operational roles before his retirement.

According to Bature, “the decision to restore the Office of the Chief of Staff—after it was scrapped in December 2024—is part of the ongoing efforts by His Excellency Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to strengthen governance and service delivery in Kano State.

“While congratulating the new appointees, the two key roles are expected to assume office with immediate effect.”