KNUPDA Acting MD Pledges Reforms,To Tackle Illegal Structures
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The Acting Managing Director of Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA), Dr. Dalhatu Aliyu Sani, has pledged to embark on reforms aimed at restoring sanity to the state’s urban areas.
Sani,who made the promise in an interview with journalists in Kano on Wednesday,also expressed his intention to address the menace of illegal structures in the state.
Sani, who is also the Director-General of the Kano Geographic Information System (KANGIS), said he regards his appointment as an opportunity to contribute to the Kano First Agenda of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf administration.
He also attributed his appointment to the successes recorded at KANGIS over the last three years, particularly in revenue generation and institutional accountability.
According to him, monthly revenue from land administration increased from less than N15 million before the reforms to more than N750 million, while the agency generated over N5 billion in 2025 without the engagement of external consultants.
The acting managing director said transparency, stricter enforcement measures and improved compliance mechanisms were key factors behind the remarkable increase in revenue, stressing that public office must remain a platform for service to the people.
He stated that he presently heads two state committees, one investigating activities at KNUPDA and the other identifying illegal structures across the state.
He said preliminary findings had revealed several irregularities in physical planning administration, although he declined to provide details pending the conclusion of investigations.
Sani also disclosed that the State Government had commenced a review of the state’s master plan to address long-standing urban planning challenges and promote orderly development.
According to him, investigations had identified numerous illegal structures erected on road corridors, drainage channels and electricity transmission routes.
He cited sections of the Ring Road corridor linking BUK New Site, Madobi and Sheka, where some buildings were allegedly constructed beneath high-tension power lines.
The Acting MD then decried widespread encroachment on drainage channels within the Kano metropolis, warning that such activities could worsen flooding and threaten 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.