Federal Government to Provide N5 Billion Aid to Fire Victims in Kano, According to Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima has pledged that the Federal Government will offer a relief fund of N5 billion to support the victims of a devastating fire at a market in Kano.

During a recent visit by the Association of Kano Business Community, which expressed gratitude for the government's assistance, Shettima reaffirmed the administration's resolve to collaborate with the Kano State government and other agencies to avert further market fire incidents.

He revealed that the necessary documentation is in place for the Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs to disburse the promised N5 billion, as announced by President Bola Tinubu, to help those affected by the blaze that caused extensive damage to the popular Kano Singer Market, resulting in massive financial losses.

Shettima made these statements on Wednesday while welcoming the business community leaders at his office in the Presidential Villa, Abuja. He noted that President Tinubu is genuinely concerned about the welfare of Kano's residents. The decision to approve N5 billion as immediate relief was informed by the preliminary damage assessment conducted after the incident.

Speaking further, he stated, "Rest assured, President Bola Tinubu cares for you. Following the incident, he immediately instructed me to visit Kano to console the victims."

He added, "Indeed, he authorized me to propose the extent of assistance needed for the Kano government and its citizens. The N5 billion sanctioned by him was based on our initial assessment; had the damage reached N20 billion, I am confident the president would have matched that amount. Such support is managed by the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs."

The vice president also called for transparency in the fund's management, emphasizing that, "The distribution and use of funds must be handled transparently for future accountability."

Moreover, he informed the group that the president instructed relevant agencies to take proactive measures alongside the Kano State government to prevent future fire incidents.

He mentioned, "The government plans to engage your association to establish fire safety protocols aimed at preventing the recurrence of such catastrophic events to ensure the safety of our citizens and their property. Fires of this scale can only be averted through preventive measures."

Acknowledging Kano's challenges as a vital industrial center, Shettima stated that Nigeria's economy is now stabilizing and progressing towards sustained growth.

He stressed that with the economic situation improving, the government is ready to tackle the industrial hurdles faced by the state, mentioning the ongoing $2.8 billion Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano (AKK) gas pipeline project aimed at delivering natural gas to northern Nigeria. This project includes the development of a 1,350 MW Independent Power Plant (IPP) in Kano, which is already 80% complete and is expected to boost local industries and power availability.

"We recognize Kano's industrial challenges. Most industries here are struggling, and those still operational are largely dependent on self- generated power. Nonetheless, the AKK project promises to rejuvenate Kano's industrial landscape. This is Nigeria's most significant infrastructure initiative, and I am convinced it will pave the way for the revival of Kano's industrial activities."

Earlier, Alhaji Sabiu Bako, president of the business community, appealed for the establishment of a special interest-free loan program for the affected traders, proposing a structured repayment plan over a decade.

Furthermore, he requested ongoing federal support in reconstructing vital infrastructure within the market to enhance safety measures and deter future incidents.

Bako emphasized that such initiatives will not only restore businesses but also restore dignity, confidence, and improve the overall economic landscape of Kano.

"Kano's entrepreneurial community is resilient. Our traders are industrious and not seeking handouts; they ask only for support that will foster a return to productivity. With the right structured support and collaboration, the Singa Market can rise stronger, safer, and more vibrant than ever."

On behalf of the Kano Business Community, Bako expressed deep appreciation and reaffirmed their commitment to working with the federal government to revitalize the economy. He extended gratitude for the federal government's timely donations, highlighting that their rapid response helped mitigate further damages and provided immediate relief to the affected individuals.

In closing, he expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his decisive actions and generosity, noting that the N5 billion donation has instilled hope in a community that was grappling with tragedy. He added, "This act of solidarity exemplifies the unity and resolve of our nation during times of crisis."