The Singer Market fire victims in Kano are set to receive N8 billion in relief, with the Federal Government contributing N5 billion and APC governors N3 billion, as Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf officially joins the ruling party.
Vice President, Kashim Shettima, made the announcement on Monday during a condolence visit to the market, leading a federal delegation on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He prayed for the prevention of future fire outbreaks and assured traders that recovery efforts would be swift and coordinated between federal and state authorities.
The visit coincided with a major political event at the Sani Abacha Stadium, where Shettima formally welcomed Governor Yusuf and his supporters into the APC. Representing the President, the Vice President described Yusuf’s defection as a move that strengthens both the party and the administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and national development.
Highlighting Kano’s historical and economic significance, Shettima praised the state as a cosmopolitan hub of commerce, culture, and scholarship. He commended Kano for consistently contributing to national growth and producing leaders who have shaped Nigeria’s political and moral landscape.
Welcoming Governor Yusuf into the APC, Shettima characterised him as a visionary leader committed to people-centred governance, discipline, and service. On the Singer Market fire, he reiterated the federal government’s commitment to working closely with Kano authorities to ensure that all affected traders receive timely support and that rehabilitation efforts are effective.
Senator Barau Jibrin, Deputy President of the Senate, described Yusuf’s defection as positioning Kano in the “mainstream” of national politics, potentially increasing access to federal infrastructure and social investment.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, called the move strategic for both the party and the state’s development.
APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, praised Yusuf for making the “right decision” and pledged the party’s support for continued socio-economic growth in Kano. He later presented the symbolic APC flag to Yusuf and other federal legislators who joined the party alongside him.
Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma, described Yusuf as “an original APC member who has returned home”, urging supporters to consolidate the political momentum in Kano.
In his remarks, Governor Yusuf said joining the APC marked a defining moment for Kano, emphasising that politics should ultimately serve the people. He noted that his former party lacked cohesion and stability, stressing that Kano, given its size and significance, must remain connected to the federal government. He pledged loyalty to President Tinubu and reaffirmed his commitment to delivering tangible results for residents.
Former APC National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, said Yusuf’s defection had strengthened the party both numerically and strategically in Kano, expressing confidence that the expanded support base would accelerate development in the state.
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