Senate Deputy President Donates N200M in Relief Materials to Kano Phone Market Fire Victims
Kano’s largest phone market is picking up the pieces after a devastating fire, with Senate Deputy President Barau Jibrin stepping in to support recovery efforts.
During a heartfelt visit, he donated gadgets worth N200 million, pledged security upgrades, and promised vital infrastructure to help traders bounce back stronger than before.
Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, on Sunday, paid a condolence visit to traders at the Farm Centre in Kano, the state’s largest phone and accessories market, following a devastating fire incident that occurred last Friday. The lawmaker’s visit came as part of his commitment to stand with constituents during difficult times and offer tangible support to aid their recovery.
During his visit, Senator Barau extended heartfelt sympathy to victims of the inferno, many of whom lost valuable inventory and properties in the blaze. In a grand gesture of solidarity and relief, he announced the donation of electronic gadgets and tools valued at N200 million to the affected traders. The items, he said, are meant to help them quickly rebuild their businesses and regain economic stability.
The visit was confirmed in a statement issued by the senator’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ismail Mudashir. According to the statement, Senator Barau described the tragic incident as “a test from Allah,” encouraging victims not to lose hope but to take strength from their resilience and the support coming from well-meaning Nigerians.
“This fire incident is indeed unfortunate, but we must see it as a trial from Allah. Our duty now is to support one another and ensure that those who were affected bounce back stronger,” Barau said.
He further emphasized the vital role the Farm Centre phone market plays in Kano’s economy, especially in youth employment. The market is one of the busiest commercial hubs in northern Nigeria, employing thousands of young people directly and indirectly.
“The importance of this market cannot be overstated. It is a key center of economic activity and youth engagement in our dear state. We are all proud of what it represents,” he noted.
In addition to the donation of gadgets, Senator Barau also made several other significant contributions to the community. These include the provision of a Hilux patrol vehicle and five motorcycles, which are expected to boost security within and around the market. To enhance pedestrian safety and accessibility, he also pledged to construct a pedestrian bridge near the market. Furthermore, he announced the installation of 1,000 solar-powered street lights to illuminate the area, especially at night, thereby helping to prevent future disasters and curb criminal activities.
His visit drew a large crowd, with many traders, residents, and youth groups turning out to welcome the senator and express their gratitude. Some of the beneficiaries of the relief items thanked Senator Barau for not only showing up physically but also backing his concern with actionable support.
“When I heard about the fire on Friday, I was shocked and deeply moved. I immediately resolved to come here in person to see the situation and offer my support,” the senator added during the visit.
The relief measures, according to observers, are timely and commendable, offering a glimmer of hope to victims who had been thrown into uncertainty. Many have praised Senator Barau for his empathy-driven leadership and for setting a positive example for other public office holders in responding to emergencies affecting ordinary Nigerians.
As recovery efforts continue, traders at Farm Centre are hopeful that more public-spirited individuals and government agencies will follow suit in helping them rebuild their lives and livelihoods.
