Power Outages in Kano Force Business Closures and Hardship

Kano State is experiencing persistent power outages that have intensified hardships for residents and small businesses, leading to closures and reduced incomes. A survey indicates that many communities spend days without electricity, with some areas receiving supply for less than 10 hours a month.

Hajiya Binta, a cold drink vendor, reports that the lack of reliable electricity has forced her to abandon refrigeration, significantly reducing her income. Similarly, Sulaiman Baba, a 27-year-old apprentice welder, has had to shut down his workshop due to power shortages.

In response to the crisis, the Bichi Local Government Area has suspended payments to KEDCO, the electricity distribution company, until power supply improves. Adebayo Adelabu, the Minister of Power, has publicly apologized for the ongoing outages and assured that efforts are underway to stabilize supply within two weeks.

However, residents remain skeptical about the government's commitment to resolving the crisis, especially following a budget allocation of 7 billion for solar power projects that has not yet yielded results.