Kano agency seals over 200 illegal structures, halts building near power lines

Kano State Geographic Information Service (KANGIS) has taken decisive action against illegal structures, sealing more than 200 properties as part of a broader initiative to enforce planning regulations and foster orderly urban development. The agency's Director-General, Dr. Dalhatu Aliyu Sani, announced the figures while leading an enforcement operation.

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This building is too close to the high-tension line. It can lead to the loss of lives and property. It is the responsibility of the government to prevent such situations. That is why we stopped the construction.

During an operation at Kundila, officials halted the construction of a building dangerously close to a high-tension electricity line. Dr. Sani emphasized the severe risk such proximity poses to lives and property, stating, "It is the responsibility of the government to prevent such situations. That is why we stopped the construction."

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The committee only needs you to bring your documents. There is no payment involved and there is no penalty. The only action we take is to seal the property until the owner follows the due process.

The enforcement exercise targets structures along major roads, including Ahmadu Bello Way, Zaria Road, and Maiduguri Road, with plans to extend the operation to other parts of the state. Sani clarified that the initiative, tagged "Operation Show Your Document," is not punitive but aims to ensure compliance with land administration and development regulations. Developers are required to present valid land titles and building approvals.

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We cannot say compliance is very good because we have just started. It is less than one month since the exercise began, but with media campaigns and public awareness, people are beginning to understand what we are doing.

While the compliance level is described as encouraging, with over 20 property owners submitting documents, Sani noted the exercise is still in its early stages. He expressed optimism that increased public awareness will lead to greater adherence. Furthermore, KANGIS is spearheading a critical review of Kano's master plan, a process not undertaken in over three decades, signaling the government's commitment to planned and sustainable urban development.

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As you know, the Kano State Government is reviewing the master plan. It is the first review of its kind because the master plan has not been reviewed for more than 30 years. This government knows what it is doing and is committed to planned development.