Kano Faces Health Crisis as Air Pollution Worsens

Residents in some parts of Kano State are facing serious health concerns as air pollution levels continue to rise.

The Kano State Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has warned that some neighbourhoods in the state capital are currently experiencing dangerous air pollution levels.

This warning follows a recent environmental report released by the ministry, covering the period from May 26 to May 30, 2025.

According to the report, the areas most affected include Gaida, Ja’en, Sabon Titi, and Sharada Market, located in Kano Municipal and Kumbotso Local Government Areas. The air quality in these locations was found to be unsafe, with a risk of health problems such as respiratory infections and other pollution-related diseases.

Dr. Dahir M. Hashim, the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, posted the findings on Facebook, urging residents to take environmental issues seriously. He stated, “We all have a role to play in protecting our environment. It is not only the government’s responsibility, but also the public’s.”

The state government has promised to respond with urgent environmental actions in the affected areas.

A further investigation by Daily Post confirmed the state government’s findings. Many people living in Ja’en and Gaida said they have noticed a rise in illnesses, especially constant coughing, breathing difficulties, and chest infections among both children and adults.

Ibrahim Sulaiman, who lives in Ja’en, said the problem likely comes from nearby factories. “We live close to industries that release chemicals and bad smells, especially at night,” he explained. “There was a time our community even complained about a company that processes engine oil.”

He added, “My neighbor has been coughing for weeks, and now his entire family is sick too. It’s scary.”

In Gaida, another affected area, Shamsu Tijjani—who recently recovered from tuberculosis—also shared his concern. “We believe the government’s report. The air is bad, and many areas here are overcrowded with no proper planning,” he said. “You see buildings everywhere, even on land that was meant for schools or playgrounds. It’s a big problem.”

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Medical experts say air pollution in Kano is a serious public health threat. According to data from IQAir, as of June 3, 2025, Kano’s air quality was rated as “Moderate” with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 79. The major pollutant was PM2.5, a fine particle that can enter the lungs and bloodstream, causing health issues.

Professor Isa Abubakar, a senior doctor at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, warned that breathing polluted air for a long time can lead to asthma, lung cancer, heart disease, and even brain-related problems like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

He advised people in affected areas to limit outdoor activities and wear face masks if possible. “If you can, move to a cleaner area or reduce the time you spend outside. Masks can offer some protection,” he said.

However, he stressed that individual action is not enough. “The government needs to do more to control pollution. Strong laws must be enforced to protect the health of citizens.”

Residents in Gaida, Ja’en, Sabon Titi, and Sharada Market are now calling on the government to act fast. They want stronger rules for factories, better city planning, and cleaner public spaces.

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