The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to working with the Kano State government and relevant agencies to prevent future fire incidents in markets across the state.
Shettima disclosed that the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs has completed all necessary documentation to release the N5 billion pledged by President Bola Tinubu to support traders and other victims of the devastating fire at the popular Kano Singer Market, which destroyed goods and business capital worth billions of Naira.
He gave the assurance on Wednesday in Abuja when a delegation from the Association of Kano Business Community, led by its President, Alhaji Sabiu Bako, visited him at the Presidential Villa to express gratitude.
“Be rest assured that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has you in his heart. The N5 billion approved was based on your preliminary assessment of the damages. If the losses were higher, the President would have approved accordingly,” Shettima said. He also stressed the need for transparency in managing the funds, adding, “The disbursement and utilisation of the funds must be transparently done for posterity.”
The Vice President further revealed that President Tinubu has directed proactive fire safety measures by relevant federal agencies, in collaboration with the Kano State government, to prevent the recurrence of such incidents. “Government intends to engage your association to introduce fire safety measures to safeguard lives and properties. Such fires can only be mitigated through proactive action,” he stated.
Acknowledging the economic challenges in Kano, a major industrial hub, Shettima highlighted ongoing federal infrastructure projects, including the $2.8 billion Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline and a 1,350 MW Independent Power Plant in Kano, which is already 80% complete. “With the AKK, Kano will bounce back to life. Power is essential for industrial growth, and we are committed to revitalising industries here,” he said.
In response, Alhaji Sabiu Bako called for an interest-free special loan facility for affected traders and continued federal support to rebuild critical market infrastructure. “Kano’s business community is resilient. With structured support and sustained collaboration, Singer Market will rise again, stronger, safer, and more vibrant than ever,” he affirmed.
Bako also expressed gratitude for the swift intervention of the Federal Government and the Progressive Governors Forum, noting that it provided immediate relief and hope to the affected traders. “The donation of N5 billion has renewed confidence and reflects the unity of purpose that defines our nation in times of crisis,” he said.