- A fire at Singer Market in Kano destroyed goods worth about ₦5 billion and left seven people missing.
- Several buildings and hundreds of traders’ businesses were reduced to ashes.
- Authorities are investigating the cause while affected traders appeal for urgent support.
A devastating fire outbreak has swept through Singer Market in Kano State, destroying goods and property estimated to be worth about ₦5 billion and leaving seven people unaccounted for.
The inferno in Singer market, which erupted on Sunday, tore through multiple buildings and stalls in one of the city’s busiest commercial hubs, leaving traders counting heavy losses and communities in distress.
Chairman of the market, Alhaji Junaid Zakari, described the incident as one of the most catastrophic the market has ever experienced.
According to him, at least four buildings used for both residential and business purposes were completely destroyed, along with stock, equipment, and valuables belonging to traders.
Traders Count Heavy Losses
Eyewitnesses recounted heartbreaking losses. A trader, Isa Abubakar, said goods valued at more than ₦200 million were reduced to ashes, while another shop owner, Musa Ibrahim, estimated his own losses at over ₦340 million.
Many traders were seen sifting through charred debris, desperately trying to salvage whatever remained of their businesses.
Emergency responders and security personnel are still searching for seven individuals reported missing since the fire began. Authorities say investigations are ongoing to determine both the cause of the blaze and the whereabouts of those unaccounted for.
Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf visited the market while the fire was still raging, urging residents to remain calm. Market leaders commended his prompt appearance, describing it as a strong show of solidarity with affected traders.
The governor also appealed to the federal government to provide modern firefighting equipment and additional emergency support to help prevent similar disasters and improve response capacity in the future.
