By Mahmud Aminu Hanga
Kano State, historically recognized as a commercial nerve center in West Africa, is poised for significant economic transformation through the modernization of its markets and the harnessing of global opportunities. As a trade hub that once connected West Africa to North Africa, Kano remains vibrant, with its markets contributing significantly to both local and national economies. Despite an annual turnover exceeding ₦3.5 trillion ($5.6 billion) across its major markets, the state’s commercial potential remains vastly underutilized. With strategic modernization of infrastructure, promotion of e-commerce, entry into international markets, and investment in public-private partnerships (PPP), Kano can unlock greater prosperity, diversify its revenue streams, and reduce dependency on federal allocations.
Kano’s largest markets, from Kantin Kwari to the newly relocated drug market at Dangwauro Coordinated Wholesale Center, offer unparalleled opportunities for growth. Modernizing these key commercial hubs through the integration of digital systems, improved logistics, and the attraction of foreign investment is essential for boosting Kano’s economic footprint both nationally and globally.
One of the key innovations in this regard is the Mobile Phone Sellers Association Digital Market (MOPSA Digital Market). This digital marketplace caters to the booming demand for mobile phones, tech gadgets, and related accessories, boasting over 100,000 vendors across Kano State in locations such as Bata, Beirut Road, Farm Center, Dangwauro, and other key commercial areas. MOPSA Digital Market is revolutionizing tech sales by providing a platform that links sellers with buyers nationwide, driving daily turnovers upwards of ₦1 billion ($1.3 million). As it continues to expand, the market is projected to generate annual revenues exceeding ₦150 billion ($195 million). This transformation opens new doors for foreign investment, establishing Kano as a formidable player in Nigeria’s tech and e-commerce sectors.
The successful relocation of Kano’s drug market to Dangwauro Coordinated Wholesale Center exemplifies how upgrading commercial infrastructure can drive substantial economic growth. Initially established to house the drug market, Dangwauro has evolved into a multifaceted hub that accommodates not only pharmaceutical products but also mobile phones, appliances, and other consumer goods. With over 4,500 vendors and modernized facilities, the center has seen a significant increase in daily turnover, reaching ₦1.5 billion ($2 million). As a diversified trade hub, Dangwauro Coordinated Wholesale Center is projected to generate annual revenues of over ₦500 billion ($650 million), positioning it as a critical driver of Kano’s growing economy. Further investments in warehousing, transportation, and digital infrastructure will only solidify Dangwauro’s role as a major commercial center in West Africa.
Kantin Kwari Market, West Africa’s largest textile market, employs over 100,000 vendors and records a daily turnover of about ₦2.5 billion ($3.3 million). However, its full potential remains untapped due to infrastructural challenges and a lack of digital integration. Upgrading the market’s logistics systems, adopting digital payment solutions, and promoting e-commerce could increase daily turnover by 50%, boosting Kano’s annual revenue by an additional ₦500 billion ($650 million) over the next five years. Kantin Kwari’s continued growth would not only cement Kano’s position as a regional textile hub but also attract international investors interested in tapping into the lucrative textile industry.
Dawanau International Grains Market, the largest of its kind in West Africa, employs over 100,000 vendors and facilitates daily transactions worth more than ₦600 million ($780,000). Handling staple grains such as maize, sorghum, millet, rice, cowpeas, and groundnuts, Dawanau is a vital player in both regional and international food markets. The market significantly contributes to the economy of Kano State, with its annual turnover estimated at ₦300 billion ($390 million). With targeted investments in modern storage facilities, cold chain logistics, and transportation infrastructure, Dawanau International Grains Market could see its turnover increase by 20-30% within the next five years, potentially adding an additional ₦60 billion ($78 million) to its annual revenue. Furthermore, Dawanau’s activities contribute approximately ₦10 billion ($13 million) annually in taxes, fees, and other forms of revenue to the Kano State government, a figure that could rise to ₦15 billion ($19.5 million) with strategic improvements. The market’s capacity for export is one of its most significant strengths, supplying products not only to local and national buyers but also to international markets, particularly in neighboring countries. On average, Dawanau exports approximately 500,000 metric tons of grains annually, generating around ₦50 billion ($65 million) in foreign exchange earnings. With proper investments in warehousing and logistics, the market’s export capacity could increase by 50%, leading to an additional ₦25 billion ($32.5 million) in foreign earnings. However, associations like the Dawanau Market Development Association, though influential in market activities, need to embrace modern technologies and digital systems to propel the market into global prominence. Their current resistance to change has slowed the market’s progress, underscoring the need for technological adaptation across all non-state associations.
Singer Market, Kano’s largest electronics and machinery hub, generates a daily turnover of ₦600 million ($780,000). The market supplies electronics and machinery not only to northern Nigeria but also to neighboring West African countries. However, outdated logistics and inadequate warehousing limit Singer Market’s full potential. By investing in partnerships with global electronics manufacturers and modernizing supply chain logistics, Singer Market could see its daily turnover rise by 30%, reaching ₦780 million ($1 million). This would generate an additional ₦65 billion ($85 million) annually, making it a major contributor to Kano’s economy. The integration of digital platforms for wholesale distribution could further boost annual sales by ₦50 billion ($65 million), enhancing Singer Market’s role as a leading electronics hub in the region.
Kofar Ruwa Market, northern Nigeria’s largest steel and heavy machinery hub, plays a critical role in the construction, manufacturing, and industrial sectors. With over 50,000 vendors and a daily turnover exceeding ₦2 billion ($2.6 million), the market is crucial to the supply of steel, construction materials, machinery, and spare parts across Nigeria. However, improving the market’s logistics, warehousing, and production facilities could elevate Kofar Ruwa’s significance on both national and international scales. A 40% increase in daily turnover could push annual revenues to over ₦1.3 trillion ($1.3 billion), substantially boosting Kano’s industrial capacity and economic revenue. Investments in modernizing steel processing plants and enhancing transportation networks would enable quicker and more cost-effective distribution of goods, enhancing Kano’s
competitiveness in the global steel supply chain. Additionally, establishing advanced recycling plants for scrap metals could further increase the market’s profitability by recycling over 100,000 tons of scrap annually, contributing an additional ₦15 billion ($19.5 million) to Kano’s economy.
Abubakar Rimi Market (Sabon Gari Market), one of Kano’s most prominent commercial hubs, has over 25,000 vendors dealing in consumer goods ranging from electronics to clothing and food items. With a daily turnover of ₦850 million ($1.1 million), Sabon Gari Market plays a pivotal role in serving both local and regional consumers. However, the lack of modern infrastructure, poor road networks, and limited warehousing facilities have hindered its growth. Modernization efforts could increase the market’s daily turnover by 25%, raising it to ₦960 million ($1.2 million) and contributing an additional ₦60 billion ($78 million) annually to Kano’s economy. Introducing e-commerce platforms, streamlining logistics, and enhancing access to international suppliers would further enhance Sabon Gari’s competitiveness, positioning it as a major import-export hub for West Africa. The development of export opportunities for local manufacturers and producers through Sabon Gari’s existing trade routes could drive additional growth, contributing ₦50 billion ($65 million) annually to Kano’s economy.
Yankaba Market, known for its vegetable trade, provides employment to over 10,000 vendors, with an annual turnover of ₦2 billion ($2.6 million). The absence of modern cold storage facilities leads to significant post-harvest losses, reducing the market’s profitability. Investments in cold chain logistics could cut spoilage by 40%, increasing the market’s annual turnover to ₦3 billion ($4 million), adding much-needed revenue to the local economy. By connecting farmers directly with consumers through digital platforms, Yankaba Market could enhance its operational efficiency and market reach, further boosting its economic contribution.
Badume Market, another significant player, caters primarily to the agricultural sector, focusing on the trade of livestock and related products. With around 8,000 vendors and an estimated daily turnover of ₦400 million ($520,000), Badume Market serves as a vital source of food and income for many families. By improving veterinary services and transportation logistics, Badume Market could enhance its operational efficiency, potentially increasing daily turnover by 30%, generating an additional ₦45 billion ($58 million) annually. Investments in modern facilities and digital systems would also attract more traders and buyers, further expanding the market’s reach and profitability.
Darki Market specializes in the sale of household goods, textiles, and fashion items. Employing approximately 7,000 vendors, Darki Market sees daily transactions of about ₦350 million ($455,000). With modernization efforts, such as better infrastructure and digital platforms, this market could increase its daily turnover by 40%, further adding ₦50 billion ($65 million) to Kano’s economy annually. Enhanced marketing strategies and improved supply chain logistics would enable Darki Market to attract a broader customer base, both locally and internationally.
Kurmi Market, known for its rich history and diverse array of goods, including textiles, agricultural products, and handicrafts, has been a staple of Kano’s commercial landscape for centuries. With over 15,000 vendors and a daily turnover estimated at ₦500 million ($650,000), Kurmi Market serves both local and international customers, promoting Kano’s unique cultural heritage. Modernization efforts, including improved infrastructure and enhanced marketing strategies, could potentially double its daily turnover, contributing an additional ₦180 billion ($234 million) annually to the state’s economy. By leveraging Kano’s cultural legacy and integrating modern trading practices, Kurmi Market can attract international buyers and tourists, further boosting its economic impact.
In all these markets, associations play a critical role in managing activities and ensuring order. However, many non-state-owned associations, like the Dawanau Market Development Association, have been slow to adopt digital systems and embrace modernization. Their resistance to change has created bottlenecks that hinder growth and development. Embracing digital platforms, modern payment systems, and improved logistics will not only enhance operational efficiency but also attract foreign buyers and investment, making Kano a global trade hub. Encouraging these associations to adopt innovative solutions and collaborate with technology partners is essential for fostering a conducive environment for market expansion and sustainability.
Kano’s potential for growth lies in its ability to modernize, embrace digital transformation, and attract foreign investment. By upgrading infrastructure, promoting e-commerce, and fostering public-private partnerships, Kano’s markets can increase their turnovers by 50% over the next five years, contributing significantly to the state’s economic growth. This modernization will strengthen Kano’s position as a leading commercial hub in West Africa and a critical player in global trade. The time is now for Kano to reimagine its future as a leader in trade, not only in Nigeria but across the globe, ensuring long-term economic stability and prosperity for its residents, businesses, and investors alike.