KANO’S BILLBOARDS: HAS KASA ABANDONED KANO’S VALUES?

By Tijjani Sarki, Public Policy Analyst and Good Governance Advocate

There was a time when Kano’s streets reflected a society proud of its faith, culture and dignity. Today, some of what greets us on our streets is forcing a painful question, who is protecting the values we claim to cherish?

Billboards are no longer merely advertisements. They have become part of the environment in which our children grow, learn and form their understanding of society. When images, language or promotional materials appear that many residents consider indecent, culturally insensitive or inconsistent with Kano’s Islamic values, silence becomes difficult to justify.

 

This is where the Kano State Signage and Advertisement Agency (KASA) must answer the people.

 

KASA exists to regulate outdoor advertising, approve signage and ensure that public spaces are not overwhelmed by inappropriate or offensive materials. Yet, when questionable displays remain visible across the metropolis, citizens are entitled to ask, Who approved them? Who inspected them? Who is monitoring compliance? And what happens when complaints are made?

 

The issue is not opposition to business or modern advertising. Kano can welcome investment without surrendering its identity.

But regulation without enforcement is little more than paperwork.

 

KASA must remember that its responsibility goes beyond revenue collection. It carries a public trust to protect order, dignity and the character of Kano’s streets.

 

If KASA cannot regulate what appears on our billboards and alike then who exactly is regulating Kano’s public image?

 

Sarki writes from Zawaciki.

Contact: responsivecitizensinitiative@gmail.com

23 September 2026