The Federal Government has approved N5 billion as an intervention fund for traders affected by the recent fire outbreak at Singer Market in Kano, while governors under the All Progressives Congress (APC) donated an additional N3 billion, bringing total relief to N8 billion.

Vice President Kashim Shettima announced the support on Monday during a condolence visit to the market on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, assuring victims of continued federal assistance.

The donations were supported by governors under the Progressive Governors’ Forum.

During a ceremony at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Shettima formally welcomed Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf into the APC, describing his defection as a boost to national unity and development.

Shettima said President Tinubu had assured Yusuf of full acceptance in the party and praised Kano’s historic role in commerce, politics, and culture.

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin said the defection would position Kano to benefit more from federal projects.

Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas described Yusuf’s move as strategic, while APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda pledged party support for the governor’s administration.

Chairman of the PGF and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma said Yusuf’s return marked a homecoming, while former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje noted that the defection had strengthened the party in Kano.

Governor Yusuf said he joined the APC to better serve the people and align Kano with the Federal Government. He explained that internal challenges in his former party, the NNPP, influenced his decision and pledged loyalty to President Tinubu.

He also thanked the Federal Government for the relief fund, assuring traders that recovery efforts would be swift.