A devastating fire broke out yesterday at the Farm Centre GSM Market in Kano, destroying over 300 shops and causing massive losses estimated near ₦100 billion. The blaze, believed to have started from a battery explosion or electrical spark, rapidly engulfed the densely packed market, which is a major hub for mobile phone and accessories traders.
Fortunately, no casualties were reported, but the destruction has left many traders facing severe financial hardship. The Kano State government, led by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, expressed deep sympathy and promised support to help affected traders rebuild their businesses. Authorities also vowed to enhance fire safety measures across markets in the state to prevent future disasters.
In a show of solidarity, former Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, donated ₦10 million to assist those who lost their properties in the fire. His contribution aims to provide immediate relief to the victims as recovery efforts begin.
The incident has sparked calls for improved infrastructure and emergency response readiness in Kano’s commercial centers to safeguard livelihoods and prevent recurrence of such catastrophic events.
