A Ray of Hope After the Flames: Deputy Senate President Senator Barau I. Jibrin Visits Fire-Ravaged Phones Market in Kano.
By Bala Salihu Dawakin kudu.
Democracy Newsline Newspapers
June 8, 2025
It was a somber morning at the popular Phones Market located at the Farm Centre in Kano. Just days before, a devastating fire outbreak swept through the market, reducing hundreds of shops and kiosks to ashes. For many, especially the youth who formed the backbone of the market’s traders, it was more than just the loss of property — it was the loss of livelihood, dreams, and stability.
In the aftermath of the disaster, a wave of uncertainty loomed until hope arrived in the form of a visit from the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin. Known for his grassroots connection and commitment to youth development, Senator Barau came not only to assess the extent of the damage but to offer tangible support and reassurance.
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The visit began with the Senator touring the charred remains of the market. He moved from stall to stall, listening to heart-wrenching stories of young entrepreneurs who had lost everything overnight. Many of them had invested their savings into small-scale phone and accessories businesses — ventures that were their only sources of income. The Senator’s face bore the weight of their pain, and his resolve to act quickly became clear.
Addressing the affected traders, Senator Barau expressed deep sympathy for the tragedy that had befallen them. “What pains me most,” he said passionately, “is seeing our youth, who should be the pride and strength of our nation, roaming the streets idle. This market is a symbol of resilience and industry. We must rebuild it together.”
True to his word, the Deputy Senate President announced an immediate intervention: a donation of items worth ₦200 million to be distributed directly to the victims of the fire. This support, he explained, would help many of the traders get back on their feet and revive their businesses without undue delay.
But that wasn’t all. Understanding the importance of security in bustling market environments, Senator Barau also donated five motorcycles and a Hilux vehicle to aid in market patrol and ensure safety. Furthermore, he promised the installation of 1,000 solar-powered streetlights, with work scheduled to begin the following week, to improve visibility and reduce crime during nighttime hours.
The Senator also emphasized infrastructural development as a crucial part of long-term recovery. He pledged to initiate consultations for the construction of pedestrian bridges around the market, citing the heavy foot traffic and frequent accidents in the area. “Ease of movement is vital for commerce,” he noted. “We will work to make this market safer and more accessible.”
In his closing remarks, the Chairman of the Phones Market Association stood beside the Senator, visibly moved. He commended Senator Barau’s swift and generous response, calling it a “lifeline at a moment of despair.” The Chairman assured the Senator and the public that all relief items would be distributed fairly and transparently to ensure justice for all affected.
As the Senator departed, the air in the market — though still heavy with the scent of ashes — was lighter. Smiles began to return to the faces of many traders, not because their problems had vanished, but because someone in power had listened, cared, and acted.
For the thousands of young entrepreneurs at the Phones Market, the visit marked more than a moment of sympathy. It was a promise that even in the ashes of tragedy, new beginnings could rise — with support, vision, and collective will.
