The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) has expressed deep sympathy with traders, shop owners, and all victims affected by the devastating Singer Market fire incident in Kano State, describing the tragedy as painful and distressing.
In a statement issued on behalf of the Forum, the Chairman of the NSGF and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, said the inferno was particularly heartbreaking, coming barely weeks after a similar outbreak in the same market, thereby compounding the losses and emotional trauma suffered by already vulnerable traders.
Inuwa Yahaya lamented the recurring spate of market fires across the North, noting that such incidents have continued to erode livelihoods, disrupt economic activities, and push many families into hardship. He stressed that the persistent nature of these disasters demands urgent, comprehensive, and technology-driven preventive measures by both state and federal authorities.
The Gombe State Governor suggested the deployment of modern fire detection and suppression systems, improved market planning and infrastructure, stricter enforcement of safety regulations, and sustained public enlightenment, particularly among traders and market operators. Similarly, he commended the swift and courageous response of the Kano State Fire Service, security agencies, the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), and other emergency responders and good Samaritans whose timely intervention helped contain the blaze and prevent further destruction.
The Governor extended the Forum’s heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Kano State, as well as to all individuals and business owners who suffered losses in the inferno. He prayed Almighty Allah to grant strength and restoration for the victims, urging them not to lose hope in the face of the devastating setback, as contained in a statement by Ismaila Uba Misilli, Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe.
Similarly, Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Mariya Mahmoud, has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic market inferno, resulting in the loss of lives and destruction of goods worth over N5 billion and means of livelihood.
The Minister described the incident as heartbreaking and a painful setback to hardworking traders whose daily efforts sustain families and contribute significantly to the local economy. She noted that the loss suffered by the victims goes beyond material possessions, touching the very foundation of their hopes and aspirations.
Mahmoud extended her heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, as well as to traders and business owners whose shops and goods were destroyed. She prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and for strength, comfort, and resilience for all those affected.
She called on relevant authorities and emergency management agencies to intensify efforts aimed at preventing future occurrences through improved safety standards, fire prevention measures, and public awareness. She also urged timely support and relief for victims to help them recover and rebuild their lives. Mahmoud reaffirmed her solidarity with the government and people of Kano State at this difficult time, assuring them of her continued prayers and support as they work towards recovery and restoration.
It could be recalled that a fire destroyed over 1,000 businesses and caused estimated N5 billion in damages, while seven people were initially reported missing in Singer Market inferno.