KANO, Nigeria — The Kano State Government has called on the federal authorities to compensate the state for the financial losses incurred following the repeated cancellation of the annual durbar festival, a cultural event traditionally held during Eid celebrations.
Tajo Uthman, Kano State Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, made the appeal on Sunday, June 8, 2025, during a Sallah homage visit by Muhammadu Sanusi II, Emir of Kano, to Governor Abba Yusuf at the Government House.
Durbar, an elaborate procession featuring the emir and his entourage on horseback, is a longstanding tradition observed during Eid-el-Fitr and Eid-el-Kabir.
The festival draws thousands of visitors and has been recognised by UNESCO as part of Nigeria’s cultural heritage.
“We thank Almighty God for sparing our lives and keeping us in good health to be here today to celebrate with the Emir of Kano, which is our very own tradition,” Uthman said.
“Since the coming of the white men, it has been the tradition for the Emir to pay Sallah homage to the governor in this house. As you know, we have about five major Sallah celebrations, and they are now part of UNESCO’s cultural heritage list.”
The commissioner expressed concern over the economic impact of the festival’s repeated suspension, noting that it has affected both the state and local government revenue projections.
“Because of this global recognition, people from around the world come to witness the celebrations,” Uthman said.
“When they come, the money they spend becomes internally generated revenue for both the state and the local government.”
“But with the cancellation of the durbar, Kano State and other northern states have been losing that revenue. That is why I’m calling for reparation to cover the gap in our budgets and offset the economic loss caused by the cancellation.”
He added, “The durbar is a major source of revenue, and we must begin to apply to the federal government for compensation so we can recover from these losses.”
On Friday, March 28, 2025, the Kano State Police Command announced the suspension of all durbar-related activities for the 2025 Eid-el-Fitr festivities, citing security concerns and the need to maintain public order.
Ibrahim Bakori, the state’s commissioner of police, stated the decision was informed by intelligence reports indicating possible threats linked to the event.
A similar ban was enforced during the 2024 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, with authorities saying the move was necessary to safeguard lives and property.
