By Maikudi Muhammad Marafa
The Kano State Government has conducted a joint site inspection and boundary demarcation exercise at Rimin Zakara, officially bringing to a close the 50-year-old land boundary dispute between Bayero University, Kano (BUK), and its host community.
The exercise, led by the Honourable Commissioner for Land and Physical Planning, Alhaji Abduljabar Muhammad Umar, marks a significant milestone in the state’s commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence, protecting public institutions, and ensuring orderly physical planning and sustainable urban development.
Kano Government Declares End to 50-Year BUK–Rimin Zakara Land Dispute
Speaking during the exercise, the Commissioner announced that the Ministry has commenced the physical demarcation of permanent boundaries separating Bayero University from the Rimin Zakara community, particularly within the newly approved township expansion area. He explained that the initiative is designed to eliminate uncertainty over land ownership, prevent future disputes, and guarantee proper land administration.
Alhaji Abduljabar further disclosed that the Ministry would issue development clearances to legitimate land and property owners within the approved residential layout. He assured residents with valid land documents that they are free to proceed with lawful development in accordance with the state’s physical planning regulations.
The Commissioner also issued a strong warning against illegal land speculation, unauthorized land transactions, and encroachment on lands belonging to Bayero University, emphasizing that anyone found violating the state’s land administration laws would face appropriate legal action.
Speaking On behalf of the Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Professor Ahmad Muhammad Tsauni, expressed appreciation to the Kano State Government for resolving the dispute after nearly five decades.
He described the development as a historic achievement, noting that the prolonged dispute had always been painful because the people of Rimin Zakara are not only neighbours but also members of the university community, including staff and students.
Professor Tsauni stated that Bayero University has consistently invested in the development of the host community through scholarship programmes worth millions of naira, stressing that education can only flourish in an atmosphere of peace and stability.
He commended Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for demonstrating the political will to resolve a dispute that had remained unresolved for more than 50 years despite previous efforts.
