A fire incident on Saturday night destroyed several shops at the popular Kantin Kwari textile market in Kano State’s Municipal Local Government Area.
The blaze, which erupted at around 7 pm, started at Gidan Inuwa Mai Mai on Bayajidda Street and spread to several buildings in the center of the market.
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Balarabe Tatari, chairman of the traders’ association, confirmed the incident, crediting the swift response of the Federal Fire Service, Kano State Fire Service, private companies, and support from Sabon Gari, Dawanau, and Singa Markets for preventing the fire from spreading further.
“The prompt intervention of the Kano State Fire Service, the Federal Fire Service, and reinforcements from private companies, Sabon Gari, Dawanau, and Singa Markets put out the fire,” Tatari stated.
He also noted the presence of personnel from the Department of State Services (DSS), Nigeria Police Force, and other relevant authorities to ensure security at the scene.
However, Tatari expressed concern over the market’s congestion and lack of access roads, which he said contributed to the fire’s spread before firefighting vehicles could arrive. He called on the state government to intensify efforts to clear obstructions that impede movement and block drainage in the market.
Kano State Fire Service Public Relations Officer Saminu Abdullahi confirmed the incident but noted that full details were yet to be provided. “Yes, there was a fire outbreak in the Kantin Kwari market, but we’re yet to receive details from our personnel who are still there. As soon as we get details, we will get back to you,” Abdullahi said.