A major fire on Wednesday destroyed more than 500 temporary stalls at the Shuwaki market in Gari local government area of Kano state.
Firefighters confirmed that approximately 529 stalls were completely destroyed, although crews were able to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading to other parts of the market. A Comm 9 jet was used during the operation.
According to a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Fire Service, ACFO Saminu Yusif Abdullahi, the incident occurred at about 3:25 pm on October 22, 2025.
The report said the control room received a distress call from Commander Abdulmalik Muhd of Gari Fire Station, prompting immediate deployment of firefighters from Danbatta Fire Station. Upon arrival, first responders found a large section of the market, measuring approximately 3,000 by 2,500 feet and containing about 1,000 temporary stalls, already engulfed in flames.
Preliminary information gathered by the emergency team indicated that the fire was caused by people allegedly under the influence of alcohol within the market area. The statement reported no injuries or loss of life.
The Kano State Fire Service urged residents to remain vigilant and avoid activities that could increase the risk of fires, especially in crowded shopping malls.