The Kano State Government has appealed to the Federal Government for financial compensation over the economic impact of the continued ban on the annual Sallah Durbar celebrations. The call was made on Sunday during the Sallah homage paid by the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who was represented by his deputy, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo.
The state’s Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Tajo Othman, raised the concern, highlighting that the cancellation of the Durbar activities has resulted in substantial losses to local businesses and the general economy of the state.
The traditional Sallah Durbar — a colourful horse-riding procession and one of the most iconic cultural events in northern Nigeria — has not held for the past few years due to security concerns tied to the ongoing emirship tussle in the state. The decision to cancel the festivities this year, again, was made by joint security agencies, citing the fragile peace in the state.
Speaking at the event, Othman lamented the negative economic ripple effect the ban has had across several sectors of the state’s economy.
“The suspension of the Durbar activities has created a serious economic gap. Hotels, restaurants, local food vendors, transporters, and small-scale businesses — especially around Kurmi Market — usually record huge sales during Sallah,” he said. “Tourists and visitors spend significantly during this season, but all of that income has vanished due to the ban.”
He explained that the Durbar is not only a cultural and religious celebration but also a major economic booster. “What we lose during each banned celebration runs into hundreds of millions. We are calling on the Federal Government to compensate Kano State for this recurring loss, which is caused by security concerns that are within the federal jurisdiction,” he added.
The deputy governor, Gwarzo, also used the occasion to call on the Federal Government to urgently address the worsening insecurity in the northern region, especially in the North-West, which he said continues to undermine economic growth and public confidence.
He reminded the federal authorities that the North played a major role in the electoral success of the present administration. “It is time for the Federal Government to prioritize the security and welfare of the people in return,” Gwarzo said.
He also called on residents to support efforts in tackling environmental challenges, particularly as the rainy season sets in. He emphasized the importance of cleaning drainages and ensuring proper waste disposal to prevent flooding in the state.
In his remarks, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II praised the Kano State Government for giving full backing to local governments in their development plans. He commended the support being given to local government chairmen and councillors to execute community projects.
The Emir said he would personally embark on unscheduled visits to project sites to monitor the progress and quality of work, stressing the need for accountability and transparency.
Sanusi also appreciated the people of Kano for their resilience and support during trying times. He encouraged them to remain peaceful and law-abiding, especially in light of the recent political and traditional developments in the state.
The Sallah Durbar, traditionally marked by royal horse parades, music, and community celebration, has for decades been a unifying symbol of the Kano Emirate and a major attraction for both local and international tourists. The repeated cancellation of the festival, however, has continued to generate concerns among traditional and business stakeholders in the state.
For now, the state government says it is hopeful that with improved security and the cooperation of the Federal Government, future Durbar festivities will return — restoring both cultural pride and economic benefits to the people of Kano.
