…Pledges full reconstruction, security upgrade, economic transformation of Farm Centre
By Jabiru Hassan, Kano
Kano State Governor, Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, has approved a redevelopment project worth over N2 billion for the Farm Centre GSM Market following recent fire incidents that destroyed several shops and business facilities.
The announcement was contained in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, on Saturday.
Governor Yusuf, who visited the market on Friday, stated that the intervention was not only a response to the devastating fire outbreaks but also part of a broader government effort to meet the infrastructural and commercial needs of traders and customers in the state.
The governor confirmed that the project would include the complete reconstruction of all damaged sections of the market and the expansion of the premises through the acquisition of adjoining land to accommodate more traders and services.
He said the government would establish a standard fire station within the market, which would be fully equipped with modern firefighting equipment to prevent future disasters.
Governor Yusuf revealed that the new plan would also feature the installation of solar-powered streetlights across the entire market complex to enhance night-time visibility and strengthen security.
He added that a pedestrian bridge would be constructed to improve access and safety for thousands of daily visitors to the market.
The project would also involve the development of a functional drainage system to address the problem of flooding during the rainy season.
The governor said access roads within and around the market would be fully rehabilitated to ease movement of goods and services.
He emphasised that his administration is determined to transform the Farm Centre GSM Market into an international trading destination that would facilitate cross-border commerce with neighbouring countries and contribute to regional economic integration.
Governor Yusuf announced that a dedicated management structure would be created to oversee the day-to-day operations of the market, with the goal of ensuring transparency, operational efficiency, and long-term sustainability.
He urged all traders and visitors to the market to collaborate with security agencies to address the rising cases of phone snatching and petty theft in the area.
He further reaffirmed the government’s ongoing commitment to youth empowerment, stating that the 26 vocational training institutes spread across the state would continue to serve as centres for skills acquisition, job creation, and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Market, Comrade Jamilu Gama, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Yusuf for what he described as a timely and strategic intervention.
He said the traders were heartened by the government’s concern and swift action in the aftermath of the fire disaster that left many with huge financial losses.
Comrade Gama noted that the governor’s visit had restored the confidence of thousands of market users who rely on the hub for their daily survival.
The Farm Centre GSM Market, located in the heart of Kano metropolis, comprises 20 commercial plazas and is renowned as a major hub for mobile phone sales, accessories, and repairs.
The market currently provides direct employment to over 39,000 youth, making it the largest tech-focused informal job centre in Northern Nigeria.
Governor Yusuf’s declaration has been widely welcomed by market stakeholders as a bold step towards economic revitalisation, infrastructural renewal, and inclusive growth.
