The Kano State Government has urged the federal government to reimburse the state for major economic losses caused by the prolonged ban on Sallah Durbar festivities.
Alhaji Tajo Othman, the State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, made the call during the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II’s Sallah homage visit to Governor Abba Yusuf, who was represented by his deputy, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo.
Kano’s joint security agencies have banned Sallah Durbar activities for several years due to security concerns raised by the state’s ongoing emirship conflict.
Othman bemoaned the significant economic loss caused by the discontinuation of the regular Durbar procession.
He described how the restriction has harmed many industries that rely on the flood of tourists and celebrants throughout the holiday season.
“Hotels, restaurants, local food vendors, transport operators, and small-scale cultural businesses, especially around Kurmi Market, usually benefit greatly from the festivities. Tourists spend heavily during this period, but all of that income is now lost,” he said.
He added, “The Durbar is not just a cultural event—it is a major economic activity that supports several sectors of our economy. Its suspension has created a significant revenue shortfall.”
Deputy Governor Gwarzo encouraged the Federal Government to address the continuous instability in the northern region, notably the North-West, which he attributed to the present administration’s electoral victory.
He also urged citizens and authorities to collaborate on environmental cleaning, particularly with the start of the rainy season, emphasising the importance of clearing drainage systems to avoid flooding.
In his remarks, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II lauded the state government’s assistance for local government chairmen and councillors, encouraging them to continue undertaking development projects.
The Emir agreed to conduct unannounced visits to project sites to personally supervise progress and job quality.
