Kano Delegation Meets SGF, Seeks Release of ₦5bn Market Relief Fund

A delegation from the Kano State Government has met with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, to request the release of the ₦5 billion Federal Government market relief fund approved to support traders affected by the devastating fire outbreaks at the Kantin Kwari and Farm Centre markets. The state said the intervention is vital to helping thousands of affected businesses recover from their losses.

The delegation, led by the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, explained that the relief package was announced by President Bola Tinubu during his visit to Kano following the market disasters. According to the state government, despite the approval, the funds have yet to be released, prompting the visit to seek urgent intervention from the SGF's office.

During the meeting in Abuja, the delegation stressed that many traders are still struggling to rebuild their businesses months after the incidents. They appealed to the Federal Government to expedite the disbursement of the funds, noting that timely financial support would help restore economic activities and ease the hardship faced by affected families.

Responding, the SGF assured the delegation that the request would receive due attention. He reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to supporting victims of disasters across the country and pledged to liaise with the relevant agencies to facilitate the processing of the approved intervention.

The meeting reflects ongoing efforts by the Kano State Government to secure federal assistance for victims of the market fires, with officials expressing optimism that the release of the relief fund will accelerate the recovery of businesses and strengthen economic activities in the affected commercial centres.