The Kano State Government has ordered the immediate shutdown of all entertainment centres across the state for the Ramadan fasting period.
The disclosure was made on Tuesday by Abdullahi Sulaiman, Public Relations Officer of the Kano State Censorship Board.
The order covers entertainment spots commonly referred to as gala houses, along with disc jockey (DJ) operators regulated by the board.
“Effective from Wednesday, 18 February 2026, all such venues will remain closed until the end of the holy month of Ramadan. The directive will take effect from 10:00 p.m. on that day,” the statement read.
Sulaiman noted that the move is designed to ensure a calm and morally appropriate atmosphere for Muslim faithful to observe the fast without interference.
“The action is intended to create a peaceful environment for residents to observe the Ramadan fast in accordance with religious injunctions,” he said.
He further stated that entertainment activities under the board’s oversight would stay suspended throughout Ramadan, with reopening details, especially concerning Eid festivities, to be communicated later.
“The closure will remain in force throughout the fasting period, while the date for reopening, particularly during the Eid celebrations, will be announced at the appropriate time,” Sulaiman said.
The board called on operators of the affected venues and DJs to comply strictly, warning that monitoring teams would ensure enforcement and that breaches would attract penalties.
According to the agency, the directive aligns with its responsibility to regulate entertainment activities and uphold moral and social order during religious observances.
In response to public reactions and concerns, the board clarified that the order does not extend to event centres used for weddings, conferences, or political functions.
A director of the board, Usman Dankwano, stressed that only outlets officially categorised as entertainment venues, such as gala houses under the board’s authority, are impacted.
“Event centres are not even under our jurisdiction. People misunderstood the directive,” he added.
