For the second year running, Kano’s historic Durbar festival was cancelled over security concerns, leaving residents, tourists, and businesses counting heavy cultural and economic losses.
More than 160 tourists, including international visitors, expressed deep disappointment, with some having spent months preparing for the event. Traders, hoteliers, and artisans also reported significant losses due to the festival’s abrupt halt.
Tourism experts and culture advocates warned that repeated cancellations threaten the legacy and global appeal of the UNESCO-recognized festival, urging authorities to find lasting solutions to restore the iconic celebration.
