Stephen Enoch
As the Sallah celebration draws closer, the usually busy Kofar Ruwa Market in Kano has transformed into a hive of intense activity, particularly within its bustling mechanics’ section.
From early morning till late evening, the sounds of clanging tools, revving engines, and hurried conversations fill the air as both mechanics and car owners race against time.
Known for its strategic location and vibrant commercial life, Kofar Ruwa Market serves as a major hub for automobile repairs and spare parts in Kano.
The narrow pathways are lined with workshops. Some makeshift, others permanent, where skilled artisans handle everything from engine faults to electrical issues.
For many residents, preparing for Sallah goes beyond buying clothes and food, it includes ensuring their vehicles are in top condition for family visits and holiday travels.
This seasonal urgency has led to a surge in patronage, placing mechanics under pressure but also offering them an opportunity to boost their earnings.
Workload Surges as Sallah Nears
Haruna Jibrin, a mechanic who specializes in fixing car suspension systems, described the current period as one of his busiest in recent times.
According to him, the workload has increased significantly compared to previous weeks, forcing him to be selective with the jobs he accepts.
“Work is so much now that at some point, I have to prioritize the ones to take and hand over some jobs to colleagues that are free,” he said.
Jibrin added that he is determined to maximize this period.
“I will do as much work as I can before the break so that I can have enough to celebrate during the festivity,” he noted.
Rising Costs, Customer Complaints
For Yahaya Abubakar, an automobile electrical engineer, the surge in customers is obvious.
He noted that car owners who had delayed repairs are now trooping into the garage in large numbers.
However, he pointed out that the sharp increase in petrol prices has affected the cost of some tools and equipment, leading to slight increases in service charges.
“Whenever we charge a bit higher than the normal price due to the increase in price of some equipment, some customers complain,” he told Stallion Times.
Despite this, Abubakar observed that most customers still go ahead with the repairs.
“Even with the complaints, they still end up fixing their cars.
“I believe it’s because Sallah is close and everyone wants their cars ready,” he explained.
Longer Hours, Bigger Gains
Ismail Adam, a general service mechanic, said the market now starts earlier and closes much later than usual due to the rush.
“Sometimes, people are still working even after breaking their fast,” he said.
According to him, many mechanics are taking advantage of the increased demand.
“Most of us want to maximize this opportunity to make as much money as possible.
“During the Sallah holiday, very few people will be around, so car owners are trying to fix their cars before the break,” he explained.
While he admitted the workload is stressful, Adam expressed satisfaction with the returns.
“I have been making some good money within this period. Although it’s stressful, I am happy,” he added.
Car Owners Race Against Time
For car owners like Jibrin Usman, fixing vehicles ahead of Sallah is not just a choice but a necessity.
Usman, who brought his car for gearbox repairs, said he has several places to visit with his family during the holiday and cannot afford unexpected breakdowns.
He noted that attempting to fix a car during the Sallah celebration would be nearly impossible due to the closure of most workshops.
“The coming Sallah celebration will be interesting, and I don’t want anything to spoil our plans,” he stated.
