Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has issued an executive order banning the allocation of public land for curve-outs or corner shops, effective October 24, 2024.
This directive is aimed at stopping illegal land allocations that have increasingly encroached on vital public spaces, including schools and hospitals.
The order restricts all public institutions, local councils, and agencies such as the Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA), the Housing Corporation, the Ministry of Environment, and REMASAB from approving or initiating any structure labeled as a curve-out or corner shop.
“No public institution or individual…will be allowed to initiate or approve the erection of any structure—temporary or permanent—under the name of curve-out or corner shop,” announced Governor Yusuf. This regulation applies across both urban and metropolitan areas of Kano State.
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Governor Yusuf expressed concern over the rampant unauthorized use of public land for business premises on essential facilities like schools and hospitals, which has led to widespread complaints.
“The Kano State Government is deeply concerned about the illegal creation of corner shops and business premises on public lands,” he stated, adding that the executive order is essential to protect public utilities and prevent further encroachment.
The signing of this executive order was witnessed by Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdusalam Gwarzo, and Speaker of the Kano State House of Assembly, Ismail Jibrin Falgore.
The directive prohibits any entity, including local councils and federal institutions, from converting, selling, or transferring public property without direct approval from the governor.
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In a move to preserve Kano’s historical heritage, the order also safeguards cultural landmarks, specifically banning occupancy permits on the ancient Kano city walls (Ganuwa). “No occupancy permit shall be issued for any part of the ancient Kano city walls,” Governor Yusuf declared.
To enforce the order, Governor Yusuf tasked the Kano State Public Complaints and Anti-Corruption Commission, led by Barrister Muhuyi Magaji Rmingado, with overseeing compliance. “We will not hesitate to prosecute any individual or institution found violating this directive,” the governor stated.
Additionally, the order extends protections to grazing reserves and cattle routes, prohibiting any unauthorized allocations by ministries, departments, or traditional institutions without government consent.
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This executive action has been positively received by Kano residents, who see it as a vital step toward better land management and preserving public resources.
The order reflects Kano State’s commitment to ending illegal land allocations that have historically compromised public services and properties.
