President Umarou Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau has conferred the country’s highest national honour — the Gold Medal of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau — on Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, in recognition of his contributions to African unity through education and human capital development.
The award was presented on behalf of President Embaló by the Minister of Defence of Guinea-Bissau, Mr Donisio Cabi, during a ceremony held at the Kano Government House.
This was contained in a statement issued on Saturday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
Speaking during the 33rd Executive Council meeting shortly after the presentation, Governor Yusuf expressed gratitude to President Embaló and the people of Guinea-Bissau for what he described as a deeply humbling honour.
“This recognition is not just for me, but for the people of Kano who continue to demonstrate the true spirit of African brotherhood,” the governor said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening educational cooperation and promoting African solidarity, saying such partnerships are essential for peace, development, and shared prosperity across the continent.
“We believe that education remains the strongest bridge between nations,” he stated.
“Our administration will continue to support initiatives that unite Africans and create opportunities for young people across the continent.”
According to the statement, the honour was bestowed on the governor in recognition of his “exemplary leadership and commitment to African unity through education and empowerment.”
Cabi hailed Yusuf for offering 50 scholarship slots to students from Guinea-Bissau, describing the gesture as “a lifeline and a ray of hope” for young people in the West African country.
He stressed that the initiative reflected the governor’s vision, generosity, and leadership, aligning with the Kwankwasiyya philosophy of empowerment, justice, and shared opportunity.
Cabi also highlighted Kano’s longstanding reputation as a major centre of learning, culture, and trans-Saharan trade, noting that the scholarship programme would further deepen ties between Kano and Guinea-Bissau.
He maintained that the award was personally approved by President Embaló in recognition of Yusuf’s “exceptional act of friendship and strategic partnership.”
The ceremony was attended by members of the Kano State Executive Council and other dignitaries.
