The Kano State Government KNSG has reiterated its commitment to promoting orderly urban development through the enforcement of planning regulations, modernization of urban data systems, and enhanced collaboration with partner agencies.
The Managing Director of the Kano State Urban Planning and Development Authority (KNUPDA) Architect Hauwa Hassan Tudun Wada, made this known during a press briefing held as part of activities marking World Cities Day 2025 in Kano.
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According to her, the government’s approach aims to create a more resilient, livable, and economically vibrant city, capable of balancing population growth with sustainability and inclusiveness.
“Kano, as one of the fastest-growing cities in sub-Saharan Africa, faces the challenge of balancing rapid urbanization with sustainable planning, effective governance, and inclusive development,”
This year’s theme, Financing Sustainable Urban Future for All,she noted, is both timely and significant.Around the world, cities are expanding rapidly and driving economic growth, but this progress often comes with major challenges, including urban poverty, housing shortages, inadequate infrastructure, congestion, poor waste management, and environmental degradation.
Architect Tudun Wada emphasized that achieving a sustainable urban future requires strategic investment not only in physical infrastructure but also in human capacity, environmental protection, and digital innovation.
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“Financing sustainable urban growth requires creative partnerships between government, the private sector, development partners, and citizens themselves,” she explained.
“Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), land value capture, and technology-driven revenue systems can mobilize funds for urban projects without overburdening public budgets.”
She also called on residents to actively participate in maintaining urban cleanliness, adhering to building regulations, supporting environmental initiatives such as tree planting, and paying development levies promptly.
Architect Tudun Wada highlighted that World Cities Day provides an important opportunity for stakeholders, policymakers, urban planners, and citizens to reflect on the state of cities, share ideas, and promote collaborative actions toward sustainable urban development.
As the world commemorates this year’s edition, she urged all stakeholders to renew their commitment to Sustainable Development Goal 11 (SDG 11) making cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.
“Let us envision a city where no one is left behind where urban growth benefits everyone, from the city center to the suburbs,”
“Cities are more than buildings and roads; they are living communities that reflect our shared values and aspirations. Through good governance, sound planning, and responsible citizenship, we can build the Kano and the world we all desire.”