Traders in Kano are counting losses after a fire outbreak destroyed dozens of shops in a major market within the state capital. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, reportedly consumed goods worth millions of naira before emergency responders contained the blaze.
Eyewitnesses said the fire spread rapidly through tightly packed stalls, fueled by flammable materials and limited access routes. Fire service officials confirmed that response teams were deployed promptly, but logistical constraints and delayed access complicated efforts to extinguish the flames.
Market leaders described the incident as devastating, noting that many affected traders rely solely on daily sales for survival. They appealed to the state government and humanitarian organisations for immediate relief assistance, including temporary trading spaces and financial support.
Preliminary investigations suggest that an electrical fault may have triggered the fire, though authorities said a comprehensive assessment is ongoing. Safety experts have repeatedly warned about poor wiring systems and overcrowding in major markets across the country.
Kano State officials expressed sympathy for the victims and pledged to review market safety protocols. They said efforts would be intensified to enforce compliance with fire prevention regulations, including installation of extinguishers and improved electrical standards.
The latest incident adds to a series of market fires reported in recent months, raising broader concerns about urban planning, emergency preparedness, and enforcement of safety codes. Analysts argue that without structural improvements and sustained oversight, traders will remain vulnerable to recurring disasters.
