Circle Design Limited has commended the Kano State Government for taking a decisive and forward-looking step toward sustainable urban transformation through the review of the Kano Metropolitan City Master Plan.
At a one-day Stakeholder Engagement Workshop themed “Reimagining Kano: Masterplanning for a Stronger, Greater Kano,” the Director-General of the Kano Geographic Information System (GOGIS), Dr. Kabiru Usman Hassan, participated alongside policymakers, professionals, and urban development stakeholders. The workshop, held at the Afficent Grand Event Center on Sultan Road, Kano, focused on redefining the future growth trajectory of one of Nigeria’s most historically significant and rapidly urbanizing cities.
Why the Master Plan Review Matters
Dr. Hassan emphasized that the Kano Metropolitan Master Plan—last reviewed between 1963 and 1983—no longer reflects the realities of modern urban growth. Since then, Kano has experienced rapid population increase, spatial expansion, and evolving socio-economic dynamics that demand a more responsive, data-driven, and inclusive planning framework.
According to him, outdated master plans often leave critical development gaps, weaken land management systems, and limit a city’s ability to respond to climate risks, infrastructure pressure, and housing demand. A comprehensive review, therefore, is not optional—it is essential.
From Planning to Implementation
A key message from the workshop was the need to move beyond planning documents to effective implementation. Dr. Hassan challenged authorities to ensure that the revised master plan serves as a practical, enforceable roadmap for development rather than a static policy document.
He advocated for the integration of modern urban planning principles, including:
- Smart city frameworks supported by digital and geospatial technologies
- Climate-resilient urban design to address environmental and sustainability challenges
- Inclusive stakeholder engagement, ensuring that communities, professionals, and institutions are part of the planning process
These principles align strongly with Circle Design’s core approach to urban development—leveraging technology, data, and sustainability to create resilient cities.
Leadership Driving Urban Reform
Dr. Hassan commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for his political will and commitment to repositioning Kano as a modern, inclusive, and economically vibrant metropolis. He also praised the Honourable Commissioner for Lands and Physical Planning, Abduljabbar Umar, for his leadership in advancing the Kano Land Reform Agenda and strengthening land governance systems.
Circle Design’s Perspective
At Circle Design Limited, we recognize that effective master planning is the foundation of sustainable cities. A well-designed metropolitan plan supports efficient land use, infrastructure development, environmental protection, and economic growth. It also enables governments to deploy GIS-based decision-making, smart infrastructure, and long-term urban resilience strategies.
The Kano Metropolitan Master Plan review represents a critical opportunity to reset the city’s development pathway—one that aligns with global best practices while remaining grounded in local realities.
As advocates of innovative, technology-driven, and sustainable urban solutions, Circle Design remains committed to supporting initiatives that reimagine African cities for present and future generations.
