KANO – Tijjani Gandu, the Special Adviser to the Kano State Governor on Culture and Entertainment and a prominent musician affiliated with the Kwankwasiyya movement, has called on young people in Northern Nigeria to prioritize vocational skills and education as a pathway to lasting financial independence.
In a recent interview, Gandu detailed his personal philanthropic efforts to support young artists and others in the community. His initiatives include distributing motorcycles to aid in logistics and transport, providing seed capital for small businesses, and donating essential items like sewing machines and bicycles.
He stated that these actions, which began before the current administration took office, are motivated by genuine support and not a desire for political gain.
Central to his message was a strong advocacy for self-reliance. Gandu, who maintains his own personal trade despite his public roles, argued that a vocational skill is a critical safety net. He warned that without such skills, youth risk becoming "beggars or sycophants" within the political system, especially when a political movement is out of power.
"A trade is what sustains everything you do," Gandu said. "Whether you are a student or a political activist, having a skill ensures you don't have to rely on others for your daily bread."
Reflecting on recent political history, Gandu spoke of the "struggle" faced by supporters between 2019 and 2023. He expressed unwavering loyalty to the movement's leader, Engineer Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, describing the 2023 election victory as a reward for their perseverance.
He pledged to continue using his music and resources to support the state government's human capital development programs, expressing optimism that its focus on youth empowerment will yield long-term benefits for Kano.