The Kano State Censorship Board has ordered the shutdown of all entertainment venues across the state for the duration of the Ramadan fast, directing event centres and disc jockeys to suspend operations.
The directive, announced by the board’s Public Relations Officer, Abdullahi Sani Sulaiman, targets popular nightlife spots, including so-called gala houses, open-air venues and DJs who provide music at social gatherings.
According to the board, the measure is intended to create a calm atmosphere for Muslims to observe fasting, nightly prayers and other religious obligations without the distraction of loud music, parties or late-night social events.
Sulaiman explained that the closure order covers both public and private entertainment spaces that routinely host parties, concerts or similar activities, stressing that the suspension is temporary but mandatory.
The board said security agencies and relevant regulatory bodies have been notified and are expected to enforce compliance, particularly during late hours when entertainment activities typically peak.
Operators of event centres and DJs were urged to respect the directive and avoid actions that could be interpreted as undermining the religious sensitivity of the period or the authority of the board.
The Censorship Board framed the decision as part of its statutory mandate to regulate entertainment and ensure that social activities in Kano align with cultural and religious values widely upheld in the state.
It added that the closure will remain in effect throughout the fasting period, with details on when venues may resume full operations to be communicated closer to the Eid celebrations.
Religious leaders in the state have long called for tighter control of nightlife during Ramadan, arguing that loud music and parties conflict with the spirit of devotion and reflection that defines the month.
The board concluded by calling for cooperation from residents, venue owners and entertainers, and offered prayers for a peaceful, healthy and spiritually rewarding Ramadan for the Muslim community in Kano and beyond.
