Air pollution sparks health concerns amid rise of respiratory illnesses in Kano

Residents of Kano State are raising alarm over worsening air pollution in parts of the state capital, amid growing concerns about the spread of viral and respiratory illnesses.

Following a recent environmental survey conducted by the Kano State Ministry of Environment and Climate Change between May 26 and May 30, several neighbourhoods—namely Gaida, Ja’en, Sabon Titi, and Sharada Market—were flagged for having unsafe air quality.

These areas fall within Kano Municipal and Kumbotso Local Government Areas.

The Ministry’s report warned that continued air quality deterioration in these locations could lead to a rise in respiratory conditions and other pollution-related diseases.

In response, the government pledged to launch immediate environmental response measures in the affected communities.

“It is our collective responsibility to protect the environment,” said Dr. Dahir M. Hashim, Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change.

“The government is deeply concerned about the ongoing environmental degradation and is assessing the necessary next steps.”

Independent findings have further confirmed the government’s data, as residents in the affected communities report a surge in health complaints.

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Frequent coughing and respiratory infections are now common among both adults and children.

In Ja’en, Ibrahim Sulaiman expressed concern about the spike in illnesses, attributing it to emissions from nearby factories. “We live near an industrial zone.

At night, the smell is unbearable. One of my neighbours has been coughing for two weeks straight, and now his entire family is sick,” he said.

Shamsu Tijjani, a Gaida resident and recent tuberculosis survivor, echoed similar concerns.

“There’s no proper urban planning here. Open spaces meant for public use have been built over, and industrial emissions go unchecked. It’s no surprise we’re falling sick,” he said.

Residents are calling on the government and environmental regulators to enforce stricter pollution controls and improve urban infrastructure to safeguard public health.

According to data from IQAir as of June 3, 2025, Kano’s air quality is rated “Moderate,” with an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 79.

The main pollutant is PM2.5—fine particles less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter—recorded at 24.2 micrograms per cubic meter.

These particles are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, posing significant health risks.

Medical experts are warning of the long-term effects of continued exposure.

Professor Isa Abubakar, a consultant physician at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, cautioned that air pollution is linked to asthma, lung cancer, and even neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.

“For residents of these polluted areas, I recommend limiting time outdoors, wearing face masks, or even relocating if possible,” he advised.

He also stressed that personal precautions alone are not enough. “Government intervention is essential.

Strict enforcement of environmental laws is the only way to prevent a public health crisis,” he said.

As concerns mount, the spotlight remains on the government to act decisively in addressing the environmental challenges affecting Kano’s residents.