A Federal Delegation to Kano Following a Devastating Market Fire
Vice President Kashim Shettima will lead a delegation from the Federal Government to Kano on Monday, following a severe fire disaster that struck Singa Market over the weekend. The incident has left traders and residents in shock, with extensive damage reported across the market.
The delegation, as stated by the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, is tasked with conveying the President’s condolences to those affected. The fire, which began on Saturday evening and continued into Sunday morning, caused significant destruction. This marks the second major fire to hit the market within two weeks, raising concerns about safety and preparedness.
A Call for Support and Assistance
In addition to offering condolences, the delegation will pledge financial assistance from the Federal Government to support the victims and help Kano State reopen the market as quickly as possible. The team includes high-ranking officials such as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas; Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin; and members of the House Committee on Appropriations.
Also present are key figures like the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Dr Bernard Doro, and the Director-General of the National Emergency Management Agency, Mrs Zubaida Umar. Their presence underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the crisis.
President Tinubu had previously called Governor Abba Yusuf to express his condolences and direct a comprehensive investigation into the recurring fires. According to Onanuga, the President requested a situation report before issuing the directive. The governor had earlier urged the Federal Government to provide modern firefighting equipment, including air support, following the recent fire outbreak.
Urgent Appeal for Modern Equipment
During an assessment visit to the Gidan Gilas section of the market, Governor Yusuf highlighted the need for advanced firefighting tools to enhance emergency response capabilities. His spokesperson, Sanusi Dawakin-Tofa, quoted the governor as saying that such intervention would strengthen the fire services’ capacity to respond effectively to emergencies in major commercial centers nationwide.
The governor also urged traders and residents to remain calm and cooperate with emergency responders while efforts continue to control the fire. He donated N100m to affected traders as an immediate gesture of support.
Responses from Political Leaders and Civil Society
On Sunday, the All Progressives Congress (APC) national chairman, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, along with former APC chairman Dr Umar Ganduje, visited the market to offer condolences to affected traders. Yilwatda spent time interacting with victims, assessing the damage, and providing words of sympathy.
The Southern Governors’ Forum also expressed deep concern over the fire, calling it one of the most unfortunate tragedies in the history of Singa Market. Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, chairman of the forum, urged market authorities to implement measures to prevent future occurrences.
Similarly, the Northern States Governors’ Forum extended its sympathies to all affected parties. Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya lamented the recurring spate of market fires and their impact on livelihoods and economic activities.
Calls for Immediate Action
Former Kano State Governor Rabiu Kwankwaso described the incident as devastating and called for urgent mobilization of resources to contain the situation. He urged government agencies, security outfits, and humanitarian organizations to provide support to bring the fire under control and alleviate the suffering of those impacted.
Dr Bukola Saraki, former Senate President, also called for a thorough assessment of the cause of the fire and practical steps to ensure market safety. He commended emergency responders and volunteers for their efforts.
A History of Recurring Fires
Singa Market has a long history of fires, with outbreaks recorded in 2023 and as recently as November 2025. Investigations have repeatedly pointed to poor handling of electrical appliances and faulty wiring as the primary causes.
Emergency responders at the scene noted that while the Kano State Fire Service arrived with a fire truck, the initial water supply was exhausted. A second truck later arrived, followed by a private water tanker from Aspira Nigeria Limited, which joined the effort.
The ongoing tragedy highlights the urgent need for improved infrastructure, safety protocols, and coordinated responses to prevent future disasters. As the community works to recover, the call for action remains strong.
