Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf has enacted an executive order prohibiting the allocation of land for curve-outs or corner shops under any guise, aiming to curb illegal land allocations and protect public spaces.
This directive, which took effect on October 24, 2024, restricts all public institutions and individuals—including local councils, KNUPDA, the Housing Corporation, the Ministry of Environment, REMASAB, and other agencies—from initiating or approving any structure, either temporary or permanent, under the guise of a curve-out or corner shop.
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“No public institution or individual, including local government councils, KNUPDA, the Housing Corporation, the Ministry of Environment, REMASAB, or any other agency, will be allowed to initiate or approve the erection of any structure-temporary or permanent—under the name of curve-out or corner shop,” Governor Yusuf announced. The order encompasses both urban and metropolitan areas of the state.
Governor Yusuf expressed concerns over the rampant, unauthorized allocation of public land on vital premises, including schools and hospitals, noting an influx of complaints from Kano residents. “The Kano State Government is deeply concerned about the illegal creation of corner shops and business premises on public lands, especially within school compounds and hospital grounds,” he stated. “This executive order became necessary to safeguard our public utilities and halt the reckless encroachment of land by officials and institutions.”
The signing of the executive order was witnessed by Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdusalam Gwarzo and Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly Ismail Jibrin Falgore. The directive further prohibits any ministry, department, or agency from converting, selling, or transferring public property without direct consent from the governor. “No entity—whether local government council or federal institution—shall approve the conversion or sale of public land without prior approval from the governor,” Governor Yusuf emphasized.
The order also extends protections to cultural landmarks, especially the ancient Kano city walls (Ganuwa). “No occupancy permit shall be issued for any part of the ancient Kano city walls,” Governor Yusuf declared, underscoring the government’s commitment to preserving Kano’s historical heritage.
To enforce compliance, the governor tasked the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, led by Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rmingado, with overseeing the order’s implementation. “The Chairman of the Anti-Corruption Commission has been directed to take all necessary steps to ensure strict compliance with this order,” he said. “We will not hesitate to prosecute any individual or institution found violating this executive directive.”
Additionally, the order extends to grazing reserves and cattle routes, prohibiting any unauthorized allocations by ministries, departments, or traditional institutions without government approval. “We will not tolerate any unauthorized allocation of grazing reserves or cattle routes,” stated Governor Yusuf.
This executive order, viewed as a significant step toward land management reform in Kano, has been widely welcomed by residents. “This is a bold and necessary move to protect Kano’s future,” commented a resident, expressing support for the state’s effort to curb long-standing issues of illegal land use.
With this executive order in full effect, Kano State aims to bring a decisive end to unauthorized land allocations that have historically affected public services and properties.
