A two-storey building under construction collapsed on Sultan Road in Kano metropolis on Friday morning, leaving at least one person feared trapped and three others rescued from the rubble. The incident occurred around 9 am, prompting a swift response from emergency and rescue teams who are still working to locate the fourth victim believed to be buried beneath the debris. The building collapse has raised concerns over safety standards in ongoing construction projects across the city.
Eyewitnesses reported that construction workers on the upper floor noticed visible signs of structural instability before the collapse. Upon seeing the danger, they quickly evacuated the site, but four individuals— including a security guard and a commercial tricycle (Keke Napep) driver—were trapped when the structure suddenly gave way. The cause of the collapse has not yet been officially confirmed, but preliminary observations suggest possible structural weaknesses or poor construction practices.
Shu’aibu Yaro, a construction worker who was present at the site, confirmed the incident and described the moments leading up to the collapse. “The engineer noticed signs that the building was about to collapse, so the workers immediately ran for safety,” Yaro said. He added that the rescue operation began immediately after the collapse, with emergency responders arriving within minutes to begin search and rescue efforts.
Three of the trapped individuals, including the security guard and one of Yaro’s friends, were successfully pulled from the rubble and rushed to Sir Muhammadu Sanusi Specialist Hospital in Kano for medical treatment. They sustained varying degrees of injuries, but their conditions were reported as stable. The fourth victim remains unaccounted for, and rescue workers continue to carefully sift through the debris, using tools and equipment to avoid further collapse.
Authorities have not yet released official statements on the structural assessment or potential regulatory violations. However, the incident has sparked discussions among residents and professionals about the need for stricter oversight of construction sites in urban areas. Many are calling for regular inspections and adherence to building codes to prevent such tragedies in the future.
The Kano State Emergency Management Agency (KASEMA) and other emergency services remain on site, coordinating rescue operations and ensuring the safety of nearby residents. As the search continues, families of the missing person await news with growing anxiety. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with substandard construction and the urgent need for improved safety measures across Nigeria’s growing urban centres.
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