The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud, has expressed deep sorrow over the devastating market fire in Kano that claimed lives and destroyed goods estimated at over N5 billion.
In a statement issued on Sunday by her Special Assistant on Media, Austine Elemue, the minister described the inferno as a tragic setback for hardworking traders whose daily businesses sustain families and contribute significantly to the local economy.
The fire, which razed the popular Singer Market, reportedly destroyed more than 1,000 shops.
At least seven persons were initially declared missing, while several others were said to have lost their means of livelihood in the disaster.
Mahmoud said the scale of destruction goes beyond material losses, noting that the incident has shattered the hopes and aspirations of many small business owners struggling to survive harsh economic realities.
She extended condolences to families of those who lost their lives and to traders whose goods and investments were consumed by the flames.
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“The loss suffered by the victims is not just economic but deeply personal. My thoughts and prayers are with the families affected,” the statement quoted her as saying.
The minister urged relevant authorities and emergency response agencies to strengthen safety protocols, improve fire prevention infrastructure and intensify public sensitisation to prevent a recurrence.
She also called for urgent relief and support for affected traders to enable them rebuild their businesses and return to economic stability.
Mahmoud reaffirmed her solidarity with the government and people of Kano State, assuring them of continued support as recovery efforts commence.
