FG, APC governors pledge N8bn for singer market fire victims, receive Yusuf into party

The federal government and governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have pledged a total of N8 billion to support traders affected by the recent fire outbreak at Singer Market in Kano.

Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the Federal Government’s approval of N5 billion as intervention funds during a condolence visit to the market on Monday on behalf of President Bola Tinubu.

In addition, governors under the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF) donated N3 billion, bringing total relief funds to N8 billion for hundreds of affected traders.

Shettima expressed sympathy with victims of the inferno and prayed against future fire disasters, assuring that the Federal Government would collaborate with the Kano State Government to ensure swift recovery and effective support.

The Vice President also formally received Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf into the APC during a grand reception at the Sani Abacha Stadium.

Speaking at the event, Shettima conveyed President Tinubu’s message that Yusuf’s place in the ruling party is “second to none,” describing his defection as a move that strengthens the party’s resolve to build a more inclusive and prosperous Nigeria.

He praised Kano’s historic contributions to commerce, scholarship and national development, noting that the state’s influence extends beyond politics.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin said Kano would benefit more from federal presence and infrastructure projects following the governor’s defection.

Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas described Kano as the “powerhouse of democracy” and said the governor’s move was strategic for the party.