The Kano State Government has called on the Federal Government to compensate it for financial losses incurred due to the cancellation of the annual Durbar festival for two consecutive years.

 

The appeal was made on Sunday by the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alhaji Tajo Uthman, during the traditional Sallah homage paid by the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Muhammadu Sanusi II, to Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at the Government House.

 

Uthman emphasized that the suspension of the Durbar—a globally recognized cultural event listed by UNESCO—has had a serious economic impact on the state. He explained that the festival usually draws both domestic and international tourists, generating substantial revenue for Kano.

 

“The Durbar is not just a cultural celebration; it’s a vital economic driver. Its cancellation has significantly disrupted our financial planning and affected our state budget,” the commissioner stated.

 

He argued that the Federal Government should take responsibility for the economic fallout caused by the suspension and provide financial reparations to the state.

 

“It’s time we demanded compensation for the losses we’ve sustained,” Uthman insisted.

 

He also urged for the immediate resumption of Durbar celebrations in Kano, describing the prolonged suspension of the iconic event as deeply regrettable.