The Kano State Government has dismissed speculations that it is barring individuals or organisations from donating to victims of the recent fire disaster at the Farm Centre GSM Market.
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In a statement signed on Thursday by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the government clarified that it welcomes all well-meaning support from the public, including philanthropists and corporate bodies, who have shown concern since the tragic incident.
Waiya explained that the state’s decision to open a dedicated bank account and set up a high-powered committee was aimed at ensuring proper coordination, transparency, and equitable distribution of relief materials and financial aid to the victims.
“This initiative is not meant to discourage contributions,” the statement said. “Rather, it seeks to prevent duplication, mismanagement, or misdirection of assistance.”
He said the goal is to guarantee that every kobo or item donated reaches the traders who truly lost their shops, goods, and means of livelihood.
As part of its intervention, the government has committed over N2 billion to reconstruct and expand the market. The funds will cover rebuilding damaged plazas and shops, acquiring additional space for market expansion, constructing a fire station within the market, and installing solar-powered streetlights to enhance security and night-time business activities.
Waiya also revealed that a market management structure will be introduced to ensure orderliness and sustainability.
He urged donors to channel their support through the appropriate government-sanctioned platforms to avoid confusion, politicisation, or exploitation of the situation.
