We Uncovers Several Anomalies, Inconsistency, Sealed Over Hundreds Illegal Houses, Acting MD
From Muhammad Kabir, Kano
The Acting Managing Director of the Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA), and who is the Chairman Taskforce Investigating the Suspended Managing Director, Dr Aliyu Shamsuddeen, has said that in the course of their Investigation uncovered several anomalies and inconsistencies.
The MD who pledged to implement sweeping reforms aimed at restoring order to physical planning and addressing illegal developments across Kano State, added that he will turn in his reports to the Government soon on the unfortunate situation they made on ground.
Shamsuddeen, who is also the Director-General of the Kano Geographic Information System (KANGIS), made this known while speaking with newsmen in Kano, Wednesday.
He said his appointment was a call to service and an opportunity to contribute to the ongoing reform agenda of the administration of Gov. Abba Kabir Yusuf.
The acting managing director attributed his emergence to the reforms and achievements recorded at KANGIS over the past three years, particularly in the area of revenue generation and institutional accountability.
According to him, monthly revenue generated through land administration in the state increased from less than N15 million before the reforms to over N750 million under the current system.
He said KANGIS generated more than N5 billion in revenue in 2025 without engaging external consultants.
“We introduced reforms, strengthened enforcement and improved compliance. Through transparency and commitment, we were able to significantly increase government revenue,” he said.
Shamsuddeen reiterated his commitment to transparency and accountability, stressing that public office should be used solely for service to the people.
He disclosed that he currently chairs two state committees, including an investigative committee reviewing activities within KNUPDA and another committee responsible for identifying illegal structures across Kano State.
According to him, preliminary findings by the committees revealed several irregularities and inconsistencies in physical planning administration.
However, he declined to provide details, saying investigations were still ongoing.
“There are issues that have been identified, but it would be inappropriate to disclose details before the completion of investigations and submission of reports to the appropriate authorities,” he said.
The acting managing director also revealed that the Kano State Government had commenced a review of the state’s master plan as part of efforts to address long-standing urban planning challenges.
He said the government was determined to enforce development regulations and ensure orderly growth across the state.
Shamsuddeen disclosed that the committee had identified numerous illegal structures erected on road corridors, drainage channels and electricity transmission routes.
He cited parts of the Ring Road corridor linking BUK New Site, Madobi and Sheka, where several structures were allegedly built beneath high-tension power lines.
He also expressed concern over widespread encroachment on drainage channels in parts of the metropolis.
According to him, some drainage corridors originally designed to accommodate large volumes of storm water had been significantly narrowed due to illegal construction activities.
He warned that such developments could increase the risk of flooding and endanger lives and property, especially during the rainy season.
“We have identified several structures obstructing drainage channels and other public infrastructure. Necessary actions will be taken in line with existing laws and regulations,” he said.
Shamsuddeen disclosed that more than 100 properties had been sealed for various planning violations, including failure to obtain building permits and non-compliance with approved development plans.
He assured residents that the agency would strengthen enforcement mechanisms to ensure full compliance with physical planning regulations.
The acting managing director acknowledged concerns raised by members of the public regarding previous enforcement practices, where some stop-work orders were allegedly ignored or reversed.
He, however, assured that the current administration would adopt a more transparent and consistent approach.
“The government is committed to ensuring that planning regulations are enforced fairly and professionally without fear or favour,” he said.
On public complaints relating to blocked access roads, drainage obstructions and unauthorized developments, Shamsuddeen said the agency would prioritise prompt response and resolution.
He noted that many complaints had remained unresolved for extended periods, adding that addressing such issues would form part of the agency’s immediate reform agenda.
Shamsuddeen also pledged to improve staff discipline and service delivery within KNUPDA.
According to him, adherence to official working hours and improved productivity would be strictly enforced to enhance efficiency.
He further emphasised the need for public enlightenment on physical planning regulations, saying many residents were unaware of the implications of violating development control laws.
He said the agency would intensify advocacy campaigns and stakeholder engagements to promote compliance and public understanding of urban planning policies.
Shamsuddeen expressed confidence that the ongoing reforms would result in a more organised, safer and environmentally sustainable Kano metropolis.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to implementing policies that prioritize public interest and support sustainable urban development.
