The Kano State Geographic Information System (KANGIS) has clamped down on roughly 50 unlawful constructions spread throughout the Kano metropolis as part of a renewed enforcement drive to bring order to urban growth.
Areas affected by the operation include Hotoro, the Eastern Bypass, the Unguwa Uku corridor, and other city sections where unapproved developments were spotted.
Dr. Dalhatu Aliyu Sani, who chairs the taskforce and serves as KANGIS Director-General, stated during Thursday’s exercise that the move aims to clean up the system and safeguard lives, assets, and the surroundings.
He noted that the taskforce is traversing the state to detect and rectify all illegal structures, whether flagged by citizens or uncovered through regular surveillance.
“We are conducting rounds to spot all unauthorized buildings across Kano. Some come from tips by individuals, while others are noticed during our routine sweeps,” he explained.
Dr. Sani pointed out that some builders flout construction codes, while others hold permits that do not align with approved land usage. He highlighted two primary violation types: constructing without permission and abusing granted permits.
“At times people erect structures without any approval. In other instances, permits are erroneously issued or used in ways that breach zoning laws. A site cleared for commerce might be used for housing, which leads to severe complications,” he said.
He emphasized that such infractions harm government income, environmental planning, and urban security. The committee will sustain its enforcement actions throughout Kano to ensure every development conforms to the state’s master plan.
Dr. Sani also advised locals and builders to stay calm, noting that those with legitimate paperwork will have their cases examined. “They need not worry. If they have all required documents, their properties will be unsealed. But if not, they must fix their documentation,” he stated.
He further recommended that developers always follow proper procedures, stressing that doing so promotes safety and effective city planning. Among the sealed sites were plazas, garages, building projects, commercial outlets, and other developments found to breach planning rules.