President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended condolences to traders and residents of Kano State following a massive fire outbreak at Singer Market that destroyed goods and stalls over the weekend, describing the incident as tragic and deeply concerning. Tinubu spoke on Sunday, 15 February 2026, after calling Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf to obtain a situation report and express federal sympathy for the victims. The fire, which erupted on Saturday evening and raged into the early hours of Sunday, caused extensive damage in one of northern Nigeria’s busiest food markets, compounding losses after a similar blaze struck the same location less than two weeks earlier.
In his message, Tinubu said the recurrence was particularly worrying, noting the impact on livelihoods and commerce. “This tragic incident is deeply concerning, especially coming less than two weeks after another fire outbreak at the same market. My thoughts are with the affected traders and their families,” he stated.
To address the repeated disasters, the President directed relevant authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the causes of the market infernos, stressing the need for practical preventive measures. He emphasised the importance of stricter safety compliance and improved fire-prevention infrastructure in public markets nationwide to avert future losses. Tinubu also assured affected traders that federal agencies would explore ways to provide support and cushion the impact of their losses.
In addition to personal outreach, the federal government plans to send a high-level delegation led by Vice President Kashim Shettima to Kano to formally convey the President’s condolences and pledge financial assistance to help victims recover and facilitate the market’s quick reopening. The mission reflects the government’s broader commitment to protecting livelihoods and strengthening market safety across the country.