KACCIMA flag off Ramadan fair in Kano, pushes for ethical trade

The Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (KACCIMA) has formally launched the 2026 Ramadan Fair, bringing together government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders and members of the business community in a move aimed at cushioning the economic pressure on residents during the fasting period.

The event, holding at the Trade Fair Complex in Kano, is being organised in partnership with the Kano State Ministry of Commerce and Investment and the Kano Markets Chairman Forum Association (KAMCHAFA) to make essential commodities available at reduced prices while boosting the activities of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Representing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, the Commissioner for Commerce and Investment, Goni Shehu Wada Sagagi, described the initiative as a people-centred response to current economic challenges.

He said the fair underscores the administration’s resolve to protect consumers and support traders, particularly during Ramadan, a period he noted is defined by sacrifice, compassion and communal support.

Sagagi urged traders to reflect the spiritual essence of the season through moderate pricing and honest dealings. According to him, markets should serve as centres of kindness and social responsibility, stressing that the true value of fasting lies in fairness and empathy toward others.

In his remarks, Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, commended the new KACCIMA’s leadership for restoring the chamber’s relevance through impactful programmes.

He said the Ramadan Fair has strengthened public confidence in the organisation and called on market leaders to promote transparency, discipline and stable commercial activities to sustain economic growth.

Speaking on behalf of the Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, Auwalu Mudi Yakasai, a district hew, reminded traders that lasting prosperity is tied to integrity. He warned against sharp practices, noting that wealth acquired through honest means attracts both spiritual and social blessings.

Delivering a religious lecture, Kamalu Inuwa, Chief Imam of Hidaya Friday Mosque, Gandu Layout, urged business owners to avoid hoarding, cheating, forgery and other unethical practices.

He emphasised that while Islam encourages lawful trade, it strictly forbids exploitation, usury and fraud. Citing Qur’anic injunctions on justice in measurement and transactions, the cleric said Ramadan should be a period of purifying not only the body through fasting but also wealth through lawful earnings.

He further reminded participants that every commercial activity is accountable before God and encouraged traders to deal in permissible goods with sincerity and fairness.

In his welcome address, Hassan Usman Darma said the fair represents both an economic intervention and a moral commitment to consumer protection and enterprise development. He reaffirmed the chamber’s dedication to promoting ethical business practices and supporting local production.

The Ramadan Fair will run throughout the fasting period, offering food items, household essentials and locally manufactured products at competitive prices.

KACCIMA expressed appreciation to the Kano State Government, traditional and religious institutions, market associations and other stakeholders for their collaboration in ensuring a successful take-off of the initiative.