Kano fire: FG, APC govs donate N8bn to victims

The Federal Government and governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress have pledged a combined N8bn to support victims of the devastating fire incident at the popular Singer Market in Kano State.

Vice President Kashim Shettima disclosed this during a sympathy visit to the market on Monday, stating that the intervention was aimed at helping affected traders rebuild their businesses and restore economic activities disrupted by the disaster.

According to him, President Bola Tinubu approved the release of N5bn to the Kano State Government as immediate relief for victims, while the Progressive Governors Forum, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, pledged an additional N3bn.

Shettima said the Federal Government stood in solidarity with the people of Kano during the difficult period, assuring that necessary support would continue until traders recovered from the losses caused by the inferno.

“President Bola Tinubu has approved the release of N5bn as palliative towards this incident, while the Progressive Governors Forum has also pledged N3bn in support of the victims. Together, we have contributed N8bn to assist those affected,” he said.

The Vice President described the fire outbreak as a national tragedy, noting that the destruction went beyond Kano State and affected the wider Nigerian economy.

The fire reportedly broke out on Saturday evening, February 14, 2026, at the Gidan Glass section of the Singer Market along Ado Bayero Road and continued burning into Sunday morning. More than 1,000 shops were affected, with several traders suffering heavy financial losses. Authorities also confirmed that at least seven traders were feared missing following the incident.

During the visit, Shettima commiserated with traders, community leaders and the Kano State Government, emphasising the need for collective efforts to support victims and prevent similar disasters in the future. He added that the Federal Government would continue to work with relevant agencies to improve safety measures in major markets across the country.

Traders at the market welcomed the intervention, expressing hope that the financial support would help them return to business and ease the hardship caused by the fire.

The Kano State Government has also begun an assessment of damages, with officials promising to ensure that relief materials and funds reach genuine victims as efforts to rebuild the market commence.