Kano Forms Taskforce to Address Illegal Structures and Building Violations

The Kano State government has launched an 11‑member special taskforce to confront the escalating issue of illegal structures and building violations throughout the state.

The committee’s mandate is to identify, review, and act against buildings erected without proper approval or those that breach existing planning regulations, with a particular focus on the Kano metropolis.

During the inauguration, Secretary to the State Government Umar Farouk Ibrahim noted that Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf was alarmed by the increasing number of unapproved developments in the state.

He added that the government has invested heavily in urban renewal projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure and the environment.

“The administration has made significant investments in road construction, drainage systems and environmental beautification. These efforts are meant to transform Kano into a more organised and liveable city,” he said.

Ibrahim warned that illegal structures pose a serious threat to urban planning and could undermine ongoing development initiatives.

He urged the newly appointed committee members to perform their duties with fairness, integrity, and professionalism.

“You were selected based on competence and credibility. We expect you to discharge this responsibility with sincerity and in the best interest of the state,” he said.

He also emphasized the government’s commitment to safeguarding the Kano master plan and ensuring sustainable development for future generations.

The committee is chaired by Dr Dalhatu Aliyu Sani, Director‑General of the Kano Geographic Information System.

Other members include officials and professionals from relevant sectors, with Mustapha Ibrahim Fagge serving as Secretary and Yusuf Yakubu Ismail as Co‑Secretary.

The taskforce’s terms of reference include locating illegal structures in parts of the metropolis such as Nassarawa, Fagge, Tarauni and Kumbotso local government areas, reviewing building approvals issued within the last two years, and halting ongoing developments that violate planning regulations.

Speaking on behalf of the committee, Dr Sani thanked the state government for the confidence placed in them and pledged that the taskforce would carry out its duties diligently.

“We assure the government that we will carry out this assignment with seriousness and professionalism,” he said.