By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

Former Kano State governor and presidential candidate, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, has been honoured with a Human Capital Development Award in the United Kingdom.

The award was presented by the Nigerian Association Tyne and Wear during its annual ceremony held in Newcastle, North East England, on Saturday. The event attracted members of the Nigerian diaspora, community leaders and professionals from across the UK.

According to the organisers, the honour recognises Kwankwaso’s contributions to education, youth empowerment and institutional development during his years in public service.

They noted that the former governor is widely credited with policies that expanded access to education, including the establishment of tertiary institutions and scholarship programmes that have produced hundreds of PhD holders and thousands of graduates.

The award was received on his behalf by Dr. Hamisu Muhammad, Global Coordinator of the Kwankwasiyya Diaspora.

In a message delivered at the event, Kwankwaso expressed appreciation to the organisers and reaffirmed his commitment to national development.

“I thank the organisers for finding me worthy of this honour. I remain committed to giving my best to the development of Nigeria,” he said.

He emphasised the role of education in driving sustainable growth, noting that investment in human capital remains key to national progress.

“The only way to achieve lasting development is through human capital development,” he added.

Speaking after receiving the award, Muhammad said his selection to represent Kwankwaso reflects the former governor’s confidence in young people.

“His decision to send me here is a clear example of his commitment to youth development and the confidence he places in the next generation,” he said.

The event also highlighted Kwankwaso’s continued relevance in national discourse, particularly on issues of education, leadership and development.