Vice President Kashim Shettima has described Katsina State as President Bola Tinubu’s second home and the New York of Nigerian politics.

Shettima made this statement on Tuesday while launching the 9th National Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Clinic in Katsina. He said President Tinubu holds the state in high regard because many of his political allies and close friends came from Katsina.

According to him, “Beside Lagos, President Tinubu considers only one city as his second home — Katsina. Some of his closest political associates, including the late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua, the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, and the late President Muhammadu Buhari, were all from this state.”

The Vice President went on to recall that Katsina played a crucial role in Tinubu’s political journey, especially when he faced challenges. He particularly mentioned former Governor Aminu Masari, who stood firmly behind Tinubu during his presidential campaign.

“When our back was against the wall, some northern governors supported the President, and one of them is here — Aminu Masari. Our turning point came when we visited Katsina,” Shettima noted.

He compared Kano State to California in terms of political influence, while calling Katsina the New York of Nigerian politics due to its strategic importance and strong political heritage.

Shettima said President Tinubu remains proud of Katsina and grateful for the loyalty and support of its people.