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70 per cent of settlements in Kano not well-planned – University Don
A University Don, Dr. Murtala Muhammad of the Department of Geography, Bayero University Kano, lamented that about 70 per cent of people in Kano reside in informal settlements, without proper mapping and urban planning.
To this extent, he argued that it makes it difficult for development planning and government interventions.
KANO FOCUS reports that the don stated this at the kick-off meeting for a new project titled: ‘Integrated Deprived Area Mapping System’ in Kano on Saturday.
“This project attempts to produce a digital map of the city, with emphasis on informal areas. A study has revealed that 40 percent of the urban Kano, in terms of landmass is informal, which means, it is an area that is lacking in terms of planning.
“And you will notice that this 40 per cent constitutes 70 per cent of the population. This means 70 per cent of people living in Kano metropolis are living in those informal areas.
“Kano has a population of between 14 and 15 million, you can think of 70 per cent, which means about 10 million people are living in those informal areas, having no access to good roads, water, waste management and sanitation,” he explained.
In his capacity as a consultant and specialist in urban development, Dr Muhammad explained that when the database is created, those areas will be identified and their needs will be addressed, which will serve, as a guide to policymakers, regarding the basic needs of the community.
“Whosoever wants to intervene will know the exact needs of the respective communities, so that when any of such intervention comes, it will be in tune with the community,” he added.
Earlier, the leader of IDEAMAPS, Dr Peter Elias, said the project, funded by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, is a 3-year project, which will run concurrently in Kano, Lagos and Nairobi, thr Kenyan capital.
“The project is about mapping slums and informal settlements, as these communities are not always captured in interventions. So when you are trying to intervene, or there is any hazard, without data, you can only base your actions on estimation. But with IDEAMAPS, we will bridge that gap by providing routine map data, so that those stakeholders can access the data about these communities to aid their planning,” Dr Elias added.
Furthermore, he pointed out that with information from partners in Kano, they can select some slum communities as representatives of all other slum communities, adding that they are just starting.
Mukhtar Yahya Usman
In a fervent Eid-el-Fitr sermon at Kofar Mata Eid Ground the Emir of Kano, His Highness Muhammadu Sanusi II, delivered a stern sermon prayer to individuals within Kano collaborating with external forces to destabilize the city’s peace and stability.
He decried such acts of betrayal and disloyalty, urging the populace to remain vigilant and united against these threats.
The Emir condemned those conspiring with outsiders to foment unrest in Kano, asserting that divine justice would prevail upon them. He said.
“There are people among us who have sold their conscience, joining hands with outsiders to threaten the peace of Kano. Let me remind them—Allah (SWT) will deal with them just as He dealt with those who betrayed Prophet Muhammad (SAW) in his time.”
These emphatic remarks come amid escalating political tensions, with reports of external interference in Kano’s traditional and governance structures.
The Emir urged citizens to dismiss provocations, remain steadfast in prayer, and stay alert to the machinations of traitors.
He emphasized that Kano’s strength lies in its unity and cautioned that anyone plotting against the state would face both divine and communal repercussions.
Concluding his sermon, the Emir invoked Allah’s protection over Kano and called on the people to remain resolute in faith and resistance.
He implored, “May Allah expose and disgrace those who conspire against our peace. May He strengthen the righteous and silence the voices of division.”
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The presidential candidate of the New Nigerian Peoples Party (NNPP) in the last general elections, Dr Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso has strongly condemned the killing of 16 Northern travelers in Uromi, Edo State, calling for a thorough investigation and swift justice.
KANO FOCUS reports that the victims, mostly Hausa hunters, were reportedly traveling from Port Harcourt to Kano for Sallah celebrations when they were attacked by a mob and falsely accused of kidnapping.
Senator Kwankwaso, in his Facebook post, he described the incident as barbaric and emphasized the right of all Nigerians to travel freely without fear of harassment or intimidation.
“I am concerned by the harrowing display of mob injustice on 16 travelers from Northern Nigeria in Edo State. This tragedy, which unfolded on March 27, 2025, in the Udune Efandion community of Uromi, is another sad reminder of the barbarity of jungle justice.”
He urged authorities to launch a full-scale investigation and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“While praying for the repose of the victims, I extend my condolences to their families, the Kano State Government, and other affected states,” he added.
The condemnations from Kwankwaso adds to the growing demands for justice and accountability following the gruesome killings.
The Edo State Government and security agencies are expected to conduct investigations and prosecute those responsible to restore public confidence in law enforcement.
Nasiru Yusuf Ibrahim
The Kano State Police Command has banned all Sallah Durbar celebrations across the state ahead of the 2025 Eid-el-Fitr festivities.
KANO FOCUS reports that the Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Adamu Bakori announced the ban while addressing journalists at the Bompai Police Headquarters, citing security concerns and the need to prevent potential unrest.
According to CP Bakori, intelligence reports indicated plans by certain groups to disrupt the Durbar festivities and create instability. After consulting with the Kano State Government and other key stakeholders, the police command deemed it necessary to prohibit the event.
“In pursuit of a safe and secure celebration, and to maintain peace and public order, the command, in collaboration with other security agencies, has assessed the rising tensions and uncertainties surrounding the Durbar activities,” Bakori said.
“Following credible intelligence reports about plans to use the Durbar as a proxy for unrest, a ban has been placed on all Durbar activities throughout the state during the 2025 Eid-El-Fitr Sallah celebrations.”
The police commissioner urged worshippers to conduct their Eid prayers only at designated praying grounds and adhere to security guidelines, including: Avoid carrying unnecessary objects that may cause suspicion. No horse riding (Kilisa), car racing, or reckless driving. Parents and guardians should caution their children against involvement in any disruptive activities.
The public is advised to avoid actions that could lead to a breach of peace or breakdown of law and order.
CP Bakori assured residents that adequate security personnel would be deployed to ensure a peaceful Sallah celebration.
“As we celebrate this joyous occasion, let us prioritize peace above all else, set aside our differences, and unite as law-abiding citizens for the progress of our state and nation,” Bakori urged.
He also encouraged residents to report suspicious activities to the police via emergency contact numbers: 08032419754, 08123821575, and 09029292926 or through the NPF Rescue Me application.
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