The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation has extended its condolences to the government and people of Kano State following the devastating fire at Singer Market, which resulted in loss of lives and destruction of goods and property valued at billions of naira.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by its Director-General and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Abubakar Umar, the foundation said it shares in the grief of families who lost loved ones, as well as traders and business owners whose means of livelihood were disrupted by the inferno.
The foundation commended the swift response of Gov. Abba Yusuf, alongside the efforts of emergency responders who worked tirelessly to contain the fire under challenging circumstances.
It, however, stressed the need for strengthened preventive and emergency measures to avert future occurrences.
The foundation said such measures should include regular safety inspections, installation and maintenance of functional firefighting and fire detection systems, establishment of rapid-response protocols, and redesign of market layouts to ensure unobstructed access for emergency services.
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“While we extend our heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved and those affected, we underscore the urgency of proactive steps to minimise risks and safeguard lives and property in public markets,” the statement said.
The foundation prayed for divine comfort for the families of the deceased, speedy recovery for those affected, and the full restoration of livelihoods.
It also reaffirmed its solidarity with the Government and people of Kano State during this difficult period.
NAN reports that the fire outbreak destroyed properties worth over N5 billion, affecting over 1,000 businesses and leaving seven persons missing.
The market’s Chairman, Alhaji Junaid Zakari, disclosed this to the News Agency of Nigeria in Kano on Sunday.
NAN reports that a massive fire broke out the same market on Feb. 2.
The fire of Feb. 2, which started around 3:16 a.m., affected numerous shops before being brought under control by firefighters and emergency agencies, with no reported loss of lives.
(NAN)
