President Bola Tinubu has expressed sympathy to traders and residents of Kano State following a destructive fire at the popular Singer Market over the weekend. The President assured victims of the Federal Government’s support and called for a thorough investigation into the incident.
The fire, which reportedly broke out on Saturday evening and lasted into the early hours of Sunday, caused extensive damage to goods and stalls, leaving many small-scale business owners facing significant financial losses. Witnesses said the blaze spread rapidly before emergency responders brought it under control.
Following the outbreak, President Tinubu contacted Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to receive an immediate report and convey his condolences to affected traders and their families. He described the incident as tragic and worrisome, noting that it occurred barely two weeks after a similar fire at the same market.
Expressing concern about the recurrence of market fires, the President directed relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine the causes and recommend preventive measures. He emphasized the need for stricter safety compliance, improved fire-prevention infrastructure, and stronger enforcement of regulations in public markets nationwide.
Tinubu also assured traders that government agencies would explore avenues of financial and logistical support to cushion the impact of their losses, stressing that protecting livelihoods and commercial centres is critical for economic stability and community well-being.
Singer Market, a major commercial hub in northern Nigeria, is renowned for provisions, foodstuffs, and household goods, supplying multiple northern states. The latest fire reportedly destroyed properties valued over N5 billion, affecting more than 1,000 businesses, with seven people reported missing. This marks a repeat incident, further compounding the challenges faced by traders.