Kano inaugurates taskforce to tackle illegal structures, building violations

The Kano State government has inaugurated an 11-member special taskforce committee to address the growing problem of illegal structures and building violations across the state.

The committee was established to identify, review and take action against buildings constructed without approval or those that violate existing planning regulations, particularly within Kano metropolis.

Speaking during the inauguration, the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, said Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf was concerned about the rising number of unapproved developments in the state.

He said the government had invested heavily in urban renewal projects aimed at improving 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.

Umar Farouk Ibrahim warned that illegal structures pose a serious challenge to urban planning and could undermine ongoing development efforts.

He urged members of the newly inaugurated committee to carry out 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 added that the government remains committed to protecting the Kano master plan and ensuring sustainable development for future generations.

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

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

The committee’s terms of reference include identifying 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 stopping ongoing developments that violate planning regulations.

Speaking on behalf of the committee, Dr Dalhatu Aliyu Sani thanked the state government for the confidence reposed in them and promised that the taskforce would perform its duties diligently.

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