Gov. Abba Yusuf of Kano State has inaugurated a seven-member committee to investigate ongoing violations of town planning regulations and the proliferation of poorly regulated developments across the state.
Inaugurating the committee on behalf of the governor, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Faruk-Ibrahim, stated that widespread disregard for physical planning laws has become a major concern for the Kano State Government.
A statement by the Press Secretary to the SSG, Musa Tanko-Muhammad, quoted him saying that non-compliance with planning regulations has undermined efforts to achieve orderly urban development, improve infrastructure, and enhance the aesthetic appeal of Kano, especially within the metropolitan area.
He explained that reports indicating neglect of development control measures necessitated the formation of the committee to thoroughly examine the operations of the Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA) and identify the causes of persistent planning violations.
The committee is chaired by Dr. Aliyu Dalhatu-Sani, Director General of KANGIS, with Rahma Mallam-Alhaji, Provost of the Anti-Corruption Institute, serving as Secretary. Other members are drawn from relevant professional backgrounds to ensure a comprehensive, objective, and fact-based investigation.
The SSG recalled that a few weeks ago, Gov. Yusuf approved a committee to identify and halt illegal structures in parts of Kano, including Nasarawa, Tarauni, Fagge, and other local government areas.
Ibrahim noted that findings from the ongoing exercise revealed that the issues related to unauthorized developments are more extensive than initially thought, threatening urban planning standards and undermining government investments in infrastructure.
He added that while the earlier committee continues its work, the government deemed it necessary to launch a broader investigation into KNUPDA to understand why planning regulations are persistently violated despite existing laws and policies.
The SSG expressed confidence in the new committee, citing the integrity and professionalism of its members.
He emphasized that the government expects thorough assessments and practical recommendations to support reforms, enhance compliance, and improve development control mechanisms in Kano’s urban planning sector.
“To ensure transparency and facilitate an unhindered investigation, the governor has directed the Managing Director of KNUPDA and the Authority’s Director of Architecture to step aside during the investigation,” he said.
The SSG reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to restoring order, enforcing regulations, protecting infrastructure, and promoting sustainable planning practices across Kano State.
Responding, the committee chairman, Dr. Aliyu Dalhatu-Sani, assured the government that the committee would diligently carry out its mandate and recommend practical measures to address illegal developments and improve compliance.
He called on relevant institutions, stakeholders, and the public to cooperate fully to ensure a thorough and successful investigation.
He also appreciated Gov. Yusuf for trusting the committee and pledged that they would submit a credible, comprehensive, and actionable report within three weeks of its inauguration.
