The Kano State Government has directed the immediate closure of all entertainment centres, cinemas, nightclubs, gaming arcades, and similar recreational venues across the state in preparation for the holy month of Ramadan. The directive, aimed at fostering a conducive environment for spiritual reflection and religious observance, takes effect immediately and will remain in force throughout the fasting period.
The announcement was made on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, through a statement issued by the Public Relations Office of the Kano State Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs. The statement, signed by the ministry’s spokesperson, Malam Muhammad Garba, emphasized that the measure aligns with the state’s long-standing tradition of upholding Islamic values and ensuring public decorum during Ramadan.
“The Kano State Government, under the leadership of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, has ordered the immediate closure of all entertainment centres, cinemas, video game centres, nightclubs, bars, and any other establishments that provide leisure and entertainment services,” the statement read. “This directive is to allow residents to focus on worship, family bonding, charity, and self-discipline as we approach the blessed month of Ramadan.”
The government cited the need to minimize distractions and promote an atmosphere of piety, prayer, and community support during the fasting month. Authorities noted that similar restrictions have been enforced in previous years in Kano and several other northern states with predominantly Muslim populations.
The closure order applies to both public and private facilities, including:
- Cinemas and movie theatres
- Nightclubs and bars
- Gaming and amusement centres
- Live music venues and event halls hosting secular entertainment
- Any establishment primarily engaged in non-religious leisure activities
Operators of such businesses have been instructed to comply fully or face strict enforcement action, including fines, sealing of premises, and possible prosecution under relevant state laws. The Kano State Hisbah Board, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force and local government authorities, has been mandated to monitor compliance and report violations.
The directive comes amid broader preparations for Ramadan, expected to begin around February 28 or March 1, 2026, depending on the sighting of the crescent moon. Kano, Nigeria’s second-most populous state with a strong Islamic heritage, traditionally observes heightened religious activities during the month, including increased mosque attendance, Quranic recitations, charity drives, and communal iftars.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, who assumed office in May 2023, has consistently emphasized the promotion of Islamic values and moral uprightness as part of his administration’s agenda. The closure order is seen as an extension of previous policies aimed at regulating public conduct, including restrictions on certain forms of public entertainment and dress codes in public spaces.
The decision has elicited mixed reactions. Religious leaders and many residents welcomed the measure, describing it as appropriate for preserving the sanctity of Ramadan and protecting youth from perceived moral hazards. Supporters argue that the temporary suspension of secular entertainment allows families to prioritize spiritual growth, community service, and family time.
However, some business owners and younger residents expressed concern over the economic impact. Entertainment centre operators, particularly those in urban areas such as Kano metropolis, Fagge, and Nassarawa, noted that Ramadan is a peak period for certain types of evening leisure, and the closure could lead to significant revenue loss. Civil society groups advocating for youth recreation and cultural expression have called for a balanced approach that respects religious observances without unduly restricting legitimate economic activities.
In response to potential criticism, the government reiterated that the directive is temporary and limited to the Ramadan period. It also encouraged affected businesses to pivot toward alternative services—such as catering for iftar meals, selling religious items, or providing family-friendly daytime activities—that align with the spirit of the month.
The Kano State Government assured residents that security agencies would maintain vigilance to prevent any breaches of the order and urged the public to report non-compliant establishments. The statement concluded with prayers for a peaceful and spiritually rewarding Ramadan for all Muslims in the state.
This latest directive reflects Kano’s ongoing efforts to align public policy with Islamic principles, a practice that has been consistent across successive administrations in the state. As Ramadan approaches, similar measures are expected in other northern states with large Muslim populations, including Kaduna, Katsina, Sokoto, and Jigawa.
The closure order underscores the interplay between religion, governance, and public life in northern Nigeria, where faith-based considerations often shape official decisions during sacred periods.
