The Rwandan High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Christophe Bazivamo, has commissioned the renovated historical PALMA House in Kano – the first resident office used by colonial administrators in the state – lauding the project as a major step in preserving Kano’s architectural and cultural heritage.
Bazivamo performed the inauguration alongside the Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf during a ceremony held on Monday at the Government House, Kano.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the governor’s spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, the envoy was quoted as saying the restoration project represented “a milestone achievement in protecting historical memory and preserving heritage for future generations.”
He added that the renovation reflected “Kano’s deep respect for its past and its commitment to safeguarding the cultural symbols that shaped its identity.”
The PALMA House, which had deteriorated over the years, was restored by the Yusuf administration with modifications that retained its original colonial-era architecture.
The structure includes: underground rooms and is stocked with archival books, historic photographs, and files dating back more than a century.
Governor Yusuf, who conducted officials around the building, said the project aligned with his administration’s efforts to restore significant public monuments and strengthen the tourism value of historical sites.
“We are determined to preserve structures that tell the story of who we are as a people,” the governor said.
“This renovation is part of our broader plan to revive Kano’s cultural and institutional heritage.”
Meanwhile, the governor also commissioned the newly renovated Deputy Governor’s Office, which his administration initiated and completed.
He expressed satisfaction with the work, saying, “the quality and standard of the renovation reflects our commitment to dignifying public service and improving the working environment of our officials.”
The state government noted that more restoration projects are underway to boost historical preservation and enhance Kano’s cultural tourism potential.
