By Salihu Ali, Kano
In a renewed effort to promote and safeguard its centuries-old cultural heritage, the Kano State Government has inaugurated the Organising Committee for the 2025 UNESCO World Heritage Volunteers (WHV) Programme.
The initiative highlights the state’s dedication to cultural preservation, youth empowerment, and sustainable development.
The inauguration ceremony, performed by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Umar Faruq Ibrahim on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf signals Kano’s readiness to collaborate with UNESCO in advancing community participation and heritage conservation on a global scale.
While addressing the Committee, Ibrahim praised UNESCO’s continued partnership with member states, emphasising that the WHV initiative aligns with Governor Yusuf’s vision of positioning culture, tourism, and heritage as key pillars of economic and social development.
“The Kano State Government remains fully committed to preserving and promoting our cultural heritage,” said Ibrahim. “This initiative will further strengthen Kano’s place as a center of history, creativity, and cultural excellence not just in Nigeria but across Africa.”
Preserving cultural landmarks
Accepting the appointment on behalf of the newly inaugurated committee, the Commissioner for Tourism and Culture, Hajiya Aisha Lawan Saji, expressed appreciation to the government for the trust placed in them.
“Kano’s heritage defines our identity,” she said. “We are committed to protecting our traditions, landmarks, and collective history for future generations. This programme will ensure our legacy endures.”
The Programme Director, UNESCO WHV Nigeria 2025, Malame N. Mangzha, applauded Kano for its outstanding role in preserving cultural landmarks such as Kurmi Market, Dala Hills, and other historic sites that symbolize the roots of Hausa civilization.
“Kano holds a special place in Africa’s cultural landscape,” she noted. “Its living traditions reflects resilience and pride. This project will elevate Kano’s international cultural profile while fostering youth and community engagement.”
She further revealed that several local and international organizations are expected to collaborate in the 2025 programme, which aims to attract investment and promote sustainable tourism in the region.
“Today’s event is part of a nationwide campaign to engage communities, youth, and traditional leaders in heritage protection, in line with UNESCO’s global mission of promoting culture, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development,” she said.
The committee, chaired by Hajiya Aisha Lawan Saji, includes distinguished figures from government, the academia, and cultural sectors.
The UNESCO WHV 2025 Kano Programme is expected to foster cultural awareness, promote sustainable tourism, and strengthen grassroots participation in heritage conservation.
The initiative reaffirms Kano’s position as the cradle of African civilization and a global symbol of cultural endurance.
Details of the engagement was contained in a press statement by the Press Secretary, Office of the Secretary to Kano State Government, Musa Tanko Muhammad.