Kano

By Uzair Adam

A devastating fire outbreak struck Kwalema Small Scale Rubber Recycling Industries in Dakata, Nassarawa Local Government Area of Kano State in the early hours of Wednesday, reducing over 200 factories to ashes.

Our reporter, who visited the scene, observed extensive damages and financial losses amounting to millions of naira.

A scene of the incident

Fortunately, no lives were lost in the incident, which occurred at about 6:00 a.m.

The chairman of the industries, Alhaji Aminu Abubakar, confirmed that all the factories in Sections B and C of the market were completely destroyed, leaving behind only wreckage, including recycling and crushing machines.

Abubakar stated that the cause of the fire remained unknown but suspected an electrical fault or spark.

He explained that the fire started from one factory in Section B before spreading rapidly to Section C, consuming everything in its path.

“I watched helplessly as my factory burned” – Chairman

Recounting his ordeal, Abubakar lamented the loss of millions of naira, saying he watched in despair as the fire reached his own factory and razed it to the ground.

“The fire was so intense that it couldn’t be controlled by factory workers alone. Even the fire service, located about 1.5 to 2 kilometers away, arrived late,” he said.

“When they eventually came, they didn’t have enough water to extinguish the flames. That’s how my factory and many others were reduced to ashes while I watched helplessly.”

Eyewitnesses describe the fire’s rapid spread

Workers at the industry narrated how the fire started in a factory in Section B, located in the northern part of the market.

They stated that despite their efforts to put it out, the fire resisted and spread to neighboring factories.

As the situation worsened, they called for the intervention of the fire service. However, the chairman noted that by the time he arrived at the scene, the fire service had yet to respond.

“When they finally arrived, they still didn’t have sufficient water to contain the fire. It continued to spread until it reached our section and burned down factories, including mine and those of my neighbors,” he added.

Victims count their losses

One of the victims, Alhaji Ahmed Ya’u, stood motionless in front of his destroyed factory, sweating and in shock over the loss.

“Just yesterday, I bought recycling materials worth six million naira. I also had a recycling contract worth four million naira. In total, over ten million naira worth of materials and equipment have been lost,” he said.

Despite the devastating loss, Ya’u expressed his faith, saying, “I take this as a test from the Almighty God. He gave me the wealth, and He has taken it away. I pray He compensates me.”

Another victim, Abdulkadir Muhammad Aliyu, described the experience as horrific, but said he considered it to be test.

He was quoted as saying, “I was at home when I received a call about the fire around 6:00 a.m. Upon arriving, I found my factory among those destroyed.

“By Allah, I cannot even estimate the millions of naira lost, including materials belonging to clients,” he said, adding, “However, as a believer, I accept this as a test and seek comfort in Allah,” he added.

Police confirm incident, call for caution

The Kano State Police Command confirmed the fire outbreak and sympathized with the victims, thanking God that no lives were lost.

The state Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Adamu Bakori, through the command’s spokesperson, Abdullahi Haruna Kiyawa, said officers had been deployed to conduct an on-the-spot assessment of the damage.

“No lives were lost, but properties worth millions of naira were destroyed,” he said, adding that an investigation had been launched. He also urged the public to exercise caution to prevent future fire outbreaks.

Efforts to get a response from the fire service spokesperson, Saminu Yusuf, proved abortive as of the time of filing this report.

By Uzair Adam

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has directed property owners in Kwankwasiyya, Amana, and Bandirawo cities to occupy their properties within three months or risk having them revoked.

The directive was announced in a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Monday.

It follows the swearing-in of the new Commissioner for Housing Development at the Kano Government House.

“We must continue developing our state, and these three cities were established with that vision in mind. To all property owners in these areas, I am giving a clear directive: either occupy your properties or risk revocation,” Governor Yusuf stated.

He urged those unable to relocate to consider renting out their properties, emphasizing the government’s commitment to ensuring the areas thrive.

“We want these cities to flourish, which is why we have provided all necessary infrastructure, including roads, water, and 24-hour electricity.

“The Governor’s Lodge is also situated in Kwankwasiyya, and I am already operating from there. If you have any complaints, reach out and talk to the Governor,” he added.

Governor Yusuf also announced that the State Ministry of Housing Development would take over the current Housing Corporation headquarters, while the Corporation would be relocated to Kwankwasiyya City to bring the government closer to the people.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has re-arrested popular Kano TikTok influencer, Murja Ibrahim Kunya, for allegedly abusing and mutilating the Naira.

Kunya was apprehended on Sunday, March 16, 2025, at Tahir Guest Palace in Kano after evading an earlier administrative bail granted to her in January.

She was initially arrested for allegedly spraying Naira notes in violation of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act but failed to appear in court for her scheduled arraignment.

Following weeks of surveillance, EFCC operatives successfully tracked and detained her. She is currently in custody at the Commission’s Kano Zonal Directorate, awaiting trial.

The EFCC has reiterated its commitment to upholding the integrity of Nigeria’s currency and warned against acts of abuse, including spraying and mutilation of Naira notes.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf reinforced his administration’s dedication to fostering religious harmony and development during an Iftar gathering at the Government House on Saturday, which celebrated the 15th day of Ramadan. 

The event welcomed prominent members of the Council of Ulama and Imams, offering a platform to strengthen unity and recognize the vital role of religious leaders in promoting peace within the community. 

In a significant announcement, Governor Yusuf revealed plans to transform the Kofar Mata Eid Prayer Ground into an International Islamic Conference Centre. He explained that the venue, utilized only twice a year for Islamic gatherings, will be repurposed into a world-class facility to support ongoing religious activities, scholarly discussions, and community engagement. 

“The foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Centre is set to occur two weeks after Eid al-Fitr, after which it will be handed over to the Ulama for management,” the governor stated, outlining his vision for a lasting religious infrastructure in the state. 

Additionally, Governor Yusuf affirmed his commitment to renovating all Friday mosques across Kano State and ensuring they meet proper worship standards. He instructed the Commissioner for Religious Affairs to compile a list of mosques requiring urgent government intervention. 

In further developments, a new, larger Friday Mosque at the Government House is currently under construction. It aims to accommodate more worshippers and enhance spiritual activities in the region. 

Expressing gratitude for the ongoing support of religious leaders, Governor Yusuf urged them to continue promoting unity and peaceful coexistence among the populace, highlighting the importance of collaboration between government and religious institutions. 

During the gathering, Sheikh Muhammad Nasir Adam, Imam of Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Mosque, praised the governor’s vision, emphasizing Islam’s encouragement of charitable acts, such as feeding those who fast and nurturing places of worship. 

He reassured the governor of the Ulama’s steadfast support and prayers for the advancement of Kano State. Members of the Shari’a Commission, the Executive Council, and other distinguished figures attended the Iftar event. 

Governor Yusuf reiterated his administration’s strong ties with the Council of Ulama, assuring them that their contributions will continuously inform government policies to ensure lasting peace, stability, and religious harmony in Kano State. 

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Joint Task Force Committee on Peace Restoration and Youth Rehabilitation has arrested 53 individuals suspected of involvement in thuggery and drug-related activities.

The committee’s chairman, Dr. Yusuf Ibrahim-Kofarmata, who also serves as the Commissioner for Science, Technology, and Innovation, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Kano.

He explained that the arrests followed an intelligence-led clearance operation conducted between March 13 and 14 as part of efforts to curb crime and substance abuse in the state.

The operation targeted criminal hideouts and black spots across various locations, including Yakasai, Kofar Mata, Zango, Zage, Zanzado, Rimi Market, Shahuchi Park, Kano Line, Sharada, Ja’in, Dan Agundi, and surrounding areas.

During the raid, the task force recovered three parcels, 50 wraps, and other large quantities of dried leaves suspected to be cannabis sativa, along with two bottles of codeine syrup, two tubes of rubber solution, and a gallon of a toxic substance known as “suck and die.”

Additionally, security operatives seized 105 pieces of suspected exol tablets, five cutlasses, two scissors, two clubs, and a collection of suspected charms.

A significant quantity of cannabis sativa was found at a known drug joint in Zanzado, where authorities also seized a delivery vehicle and five cattle believed to belong to a notorious drug dealer.

Ibrahim-Kofarmata stated that the suspects would face prosecution upon the completion of investigations, reaffirming the committee’s commitment to restoring peace and ensuring a drug-free environment in Kano.

He noted that the task force, comprising security agencies and government officials, remains dedicated to cleansing Kano’s streets and safeguarding the well-being of its residents.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has seized a total of $1,154,900 and SR135,900 in undeclared foreign currency at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA).

The interception occurred during a routine baggage inspection of Hauwa Ibrahim Abdullahi, a passenger who arrived from Saudi Arabia on Saudi Airline Flight No. SV401.

According to the NCS, officers discovered the foreign currency hidden inside packs of palm-date fruits, commonly known as Dabino, during a physical examination of the passenger’s luggage.

The agency stated that the operation aligns with its ongoing efforts to enforce financial regulations and curb illicit financial flows across Nigeria’s borders.

Following due process, both the suspect and the confiscated funds were handed over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for further investigation and legal proceedings.

A court subsequently convicted the defendant and ruled that the undeclared money be forfeited to the Federal Government in accordance with the Money Laundering (Prevention and Prohibition) Act of 2022.

The NCS has reiterated that all travelers must adhere to Nigeria’s financial regulations, particularly the obligation to declare any cash or negotiable instruments exceeding the approved limit when entering or leaving the country.

The agency emphasized that failure to comply with these laws is a violation of Nigerian financial regulations and carries serious legal consequences.

Under the leadership of Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, the NCS remains committed to combating smuggling, illegal financial transactions, and other cross-border crimes.

This latest seizure, the agency noted, underscores its determination to protect Nigeria’s economic interests and enforce financial compliance.

The NCS assured the public of its continued collaboration with relevant government agencies and stakeholders to strengthen border security, ensure adherence to financial laws, and safeguard the nation’s economy.

It urged travelers and financial sector stakeholders to remain vigilant and strictly follow legal financial practices.

By Uzair Adam

The Kano State Government has cleared eight months’ salary arrears for 2,369 street sweepers, reaffirming its commitment to improving workers’ welfare and environmental sanitation.

The official disbursement took place on Wednesday at the Coronation Hall, Government House, where Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahir M. Hashim, handed out ATM cards loaded with the payments.

Dr. Hashim explained that the government had earlier disbursed one month’s salary to ease the workers’ financial burden while working on a sustainable payment system.

“Today, all outstanding payments have been settled, and moving forward, salaries will be paid promptly every month, In Sha Allah,” he assured.

He urged the sweepers to remain dedicated to their duties and continue supporting the administration’s efforts to maintain a cleaner and healthier Kano.

He also highlighted the crucial role of street sweepers in the government’s urban renewal initiatives.

Dr. Hashim noted that upon assuming office, the administration inherited a backlog of six months’ unpaid salaries for the workers, which later increased to eight months.

He reiterated that the settlement of these arrears aligns with the government’s broader efforts to modernize the city and enhance public infrastructure.

Plans are underway to introduce mechanized street cleaning, with daily road washing expected to commence within the next three to four months.

Additionally, the government has screened the workers and opened bank accounts for them, ensuring future payments are made simultaneously with other government employees.

He further revealed that Governor Yusuf had directed the renewal of uniforms and the provision of protective gear, including face masks and shoes, for the sweepers.

Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the payment, with Dayyaba Abubakar from Kumbotso Local Government thanking the governor for his support, while Salisu Sani described the salary settlement as a great relief.

By Uzair Adam

Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has forwarded a nominee to the state House of Assembly for screening as a commissioner.

During Monday’s plenary, Speaker Jibrin Falgore read a letter from the governor, introducing Ibrahim Yakubu Adamu as the nominee.

Adamu currently serves as the Managing Director of the Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA).

Falgore stated that the assembly would soon invite the nominee for screening.

Meanwhile, the House passed a bill establishing an infrastructure management agency.

Majority Leader Lawan Husseini (NNPP-Dala) explained that the agency would oversee the planning, development, and maintenance of key infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and public buildings, to enhance efficiency in the state.

By Uzair Adam 

Police in Kano have successfully thwarted an attempt by suspected bandits to infiltrate the state, leading to the arrest of four individuals.  

The spokesperson of the command, SP Abdullahi Haruna, confirmed the development, stating that the suspects were apprehended following credible intelligence that they had arrived in Kano intending to purchase an AK-47 rifle.  

SP Haruna added that the suspects were found in possession of various weapons and are currently in custody as investigations continue.

By Hadiza Abdulkadir

Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, has urged the State House of Assembly to prioritize laws that promote significant development and improve citizens’ well-being. This call came during a special breakfast meeting with members of the State and National Assemblies from Kano.

In a statement by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, Governor Yusuf emphasized the need for collaboration between the executive and legislative branches to enhance governance and address challenges in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and security. He urged lawmakers to align their agendas with the administration’s vision for a prosperous Kano.

Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Jibril Ismail Falgore commended the governor for his commitment to inclusive governance and cooperation with the legislature. He highlighted the recent signing of a ₦719 billion appropriation bill for the 2025 fiscal year, reflecting the governor’s dedication to enhancing education and healthcare.

Also attending, Hon. Hassan Hussain, representing the National Assembly Caucus of the NNPP, noted that Kano representatives are actively facilitating strategic constituency projects to boost development.

The meeting provided a vital platform to discuss governance and strategies for accelerating development in Kano State, with a strong commitment from all parties to work collaboratively for the benefit of the citizens.