The Kano State Censorship Board has ordered the immediate suspension of all entertainment activities across Kano State, including event centres, DJs, and related nightlife operations, in a move that has sparked conversations within the state’s creative and hospitality sectors.
The directive, which took effect at 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, will remain in place throughout the Ramadan fasting period. According to the board, the decision is aimed at ensuring a calm and morally conducive environment for residents observing the holy month.
In an official statement, the board said the suspension applies to all event centres, commonly referred to as “gala houses,” as well as Disc Jockey services and public entertainment gatherings. Authorities emphasized that the measure is part of efforts to promote order and respect religious sensitivities during the fasting period.
The board added that further communication would be issued regarding the reopening of entertainment venues, particularly ahead of Eid celebrations. Operators have been advised to comply fully with the directive to avoid sanctions.
This is not the first time the censorship authority has taken sweeping action against entertainment activities in the state. In 2025, similar restrictions were introduced as part of broader regulatory enforcement under amended censorship laws, drawing mixed reactions from residents and industry stakeholders.
While supporters argue that such measures reflect Kano’s cultural and religious values, critics have expressed concern over the economic implications for business owners, DJs, event planners, and hospitality workers whose livelihoods depend on social gatherings and nightlife events.
Kano, a predominantly Muslim state in northern Nigeria, has historically implemented regulatory policies during Ramadan to align public activities with the solemnity of the period. However, the scale of the latest suspension; covering all entertainment venues statewide, has renewed debate about the balance between religious observance, economic activity, and creative expression.
As the fasting period begins, attention now turns to how long the restrictions will last and what relief measures, if any, may be considered for affected operators.