The Kano State Government has launched a comprehensive operation to demolish illegal structures built on government land, marking a significant effort to restore order and safeguard public spaces.
This initiative, carried out under the supervision of the Kano State Task Force on Development Control, aims to address the growing problem of unauthorized construction in the state.
During an inspection at Kwankwasiya city on Wednesday, Hameed Sidi, the secretary of the task force, explained that the exercise is a strategic move to reclaim lands designated for public developmental projects. According to Sidi, the task force has identified more than 10 unauthorized structures in Kwankwasiya city alone, with other areas also flagged as hotspots for illegal developments.
The operation is part of a broader plan to enforce compliance with land-use regulations. Sidi noted that property owners affected by the demolition were given ample notice to vacate the premises before the exercise commenced. “We are committed to restoring order and ensuring that public land is used for its intended purpose,” Sidi emphasized, adding that the demolition drive will persist until all encroachments are removed.
Sidi further urged residents to ensure their land documentation is up-to-date by visiting the Ministry of Land and Physical Planning for the recertification of old land titles. This process, he explained, would help secure investments, ensure the accuracy of land records, and resolve disputes more effectively.
In addition to demolishing illegal structures, the task force marked additional plots and buildings in various locations to halt ongoing unauthorized construction. For instance, a duplex in Guringawa, located in the Kumbotso Local Government Area, was pulled down as part of the operation. Sidi stated that this is just the beginning of a long-term campaign to maintain the integrity of Kano’s urban planning framework.
Residents have been urged to comply with the state’s land-use policies to avoid being caught in subsequent enforcement actions. According to Sidi, adherence to these regulations is critical for sustainable development and for preventing the misuse of land resources meant to benefit the public.
As the task force continues its work, the Kano State Government remains resolute in its commitment to reclaiming public land and ensuring that all developments align with the state’s master plan. This operation is expected to set a precedent for enforcing land-use laws, sending a clear message to individuals and entities engaging in unauthorized construction.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the task force’s actions have garnered mixed reactions from the public, with some lauding the government’s determination to restore order, while others expressed concern over the timing and implications for affected property owners. Nevertheless, the government insists that reclaiming public land is essential for the state’s long-term growth and development.
