The Kano State Government has inaugurated an 11-member special taskforce committee to address the growing incidence of illegal structures and building code violations across the state.
The committee is mandated to identify, review, and take enforcement action against buildings erected without official approval or those that violate existing physical planning regulations, particularly within the Kano metropolis.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony, the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Farouk Ibrahim, said Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf was deeply concerned about the increasing number of unapproved developments across the state.
He noted that the administration had made significant investments in urban renewal projects aimed at improving infrastructure, environmental management, and the overall aesthetics of Kano.
“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 the spread of illegal structures poses a major challenge to urban planning efforts and could undermine ongoing development initiatives if not urgently addressed.
He urged members of the committee to discharge their responsibilities with integrity, fairness, and professionalism, stressing that their selection was based on competence and credibility.
“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.
The SSG reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting the Kano master plan and ensuring sustainable urban development for future generations.
The committee is chaired by the Director-General of the Kano Geographic Information System (Kano GIS), Dr. Dalhatu Aliyu Sani.
Other members are drawn from relevant professional and government sectors, with Mustapha Ibrahim Fagge serving as Secretary and Yusuf Yakubu Ismail as Co-Secretary.
According to its terms of reference, the committee will identify illegal structures in key areas of the metropolis, including Nassarawa, Fagge, Tarauni, and Kumbotso Local Government Areas.
It is also expected to review building approvals issued within the last two years and halt ongoing construction projects that violate planning regulations.
Speaking on behalf of the committee, Dr. Dalhatu Aliyu Sani expressed appreciation to the state government for the confidence reposed in them and assured that the taskforce would carry out its assignment diligently.
“We assure the government that we will carry out this assignment with seriousness and professionalism,” he said.
The inauguration marks part of broader efforts by the Kano State Government to enforce urban planning laws, regulate construction activities, and ensure orderly development across the state.
