A devastating fire broke out on Saturday evening, destroying multiple shops at the renowned Kantin Kwari textile market in Kano’s Municipal Local Government Area.
According to The PUNCH, the blaze, which ignited around 7 p.m., originated at Gidan Inuwa Mai Mai on Bayajidda Street and quickly spread, damaging several structures within the central part of the bustling market.
The chairman of the Kantin Kwari Traders’ Association, Balarabe Tatari, confirmed the incident.
He praised the swift response from the Federal Fire Service, Kano State Fire Service, and additional support from private companies and other local markets, which he said was instrumental in containing the fire.
“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 explained.
Security forces, including personnel from the Department of State Services and the Nigeria Police Force, were immediately deployed to secure the market and prevent looting or further damage.
Tatari pointed out that congestion and the absence of proper access routes in the market made it difficult for fire trucks to reach the scene in time.
He urged the state government to prioritize removing obstructive structures and clearing blocked drainage systems to improve movement within the market.
The Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Fire Service, Saminu Abdullahi, confirmed the incident but noted that official details were still being compiled.
“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 stated.
The fire has left traders counting their losses while authorities work to determine the full extent of the damage.
