Kano Gov’t Stops Construction of Unauthorised Private Airstrip

The Kano State Ministry of Land has intervened to halt the unauthorised construction of a private airstrip in Bebeji Local Government Area, which was allegedly obstructing residents’ access to their farmlands.

The illegal project was brought to light after members of the Arewawa and Allon Sarki communities reported that construction activities had begun abruptly, blocking pathways to their farmlands and nearby villages, thereby causing significant hardship for the residents.

Hamid Sidi Ali, the Secretary of the Taskforce on Development Control, led a team to the project site for verification and investigation.

Speaking to journalists, Ali confirmed that the ministry responded promptly after receiving complaints from the affected communities.

“This is why we have come to verify, investigate, and ensure that the issue is resolved. We have already erected notice boards to stop all ongoing development and ensure that villagers regain access to their lands to sustain their livelihoods,” Ali said.

He emphasized that the ministry had not issued any approval for the construction of the airstrip and urged the individual responsible for the construction to come forward for further investigation.

“We hereby invite the said owner of the land to come forward for investigation. From our records, there is no approval for any construction of this airstrip. So, we need him to come forward,” he added.

The government stated that the intervention was necessary to restore access to the affected farmlands and ensure compliance with proper land use regulations, underscoring its commitment to protecting the livelihoods of local farmers and residents.