Each of Nigeria’s 36 states has their slogans, which may as well define their uniqueness and contribution to national growth.
For instance, Lagos State proudly carries the title “Centre of Excellence,” while Benue State has been aptly named the “Food Basket of the Nation” due to its agricultural abundance.
Kano State, on the other hand, is recognized as Nigeria’s “Center of Commerce.” With a population of over 21 million people, Kano is a bustling hub of trade and industry. In this report, GOOD EVENING NIGERIA explore five reasons Kano State is Nigeria’s Center of Commerce.
1. Strategic Location
Kano State is located in the northern region of Nigeria and is the second-largest city in the country. Its location within the Sahelian geographic region, just south of the Sahara, provides the state with a strategic advantage for trade in both the Sahelian and Saharan regions.
This has made Kano a significant center for the production and export of agricultural products such as hides and skins, peanuts, and cotton.
2. Industrial Hub
Kano State is the largest industrial center in Northern Nigeria with major industries including textile, tanning, footwear, cosmetics, plastics, enamelware, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, furniture, and other industries. Others include agricultural implements, soft drinks, food and beverages, dairy products, vegetable oil, animal feeds, etc.
Kano is home to several markets, both national and international, that are known for their unique commodities. Some of the markets are:
Dawano Market: This is the largest foodstuff market in Africa, and it is known for its grains and seeds such as Moringa seed and leaf, Sesame seed, Hibiscus flower (Sobo), Soya beans, Beans, Cassava, Millet, Guinea corn, and other items. Dawanau market is very popular both in the country and outside Nigeria. It is not only serving the state’s economy, it is serving those of other states, countries in Africa, and also the global economy.
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Kantin Kwari Market: This is the biggest textile market in Africa, and it is known for its clothing, lifestyle, sample materials, Ankara textiles, English laces, and George materials. This market has witnessed an influx of Chinese traders who sell their wares at cheaper rates to customers to the disadvantage of indigenous traders.
Kurmi Market: This is a big market in Kano, Nigeria’s Kano State. Founded by Muhammad Rumfa, a King of Kano, in the 15th century, it is still in use in the 21st century. The market is known for its general merchandise.
Galadima Market: This is a general market and enterprises, and it consists of traders from different ethnic groups in Nigeria. These include Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, Kanuri, Ibibio, Fulani, Efik, Edo, Igala, Idoma, and Ebira, just to mention a few. It is most populated with Hausa’s.
3. Agriculture
Kano State is also a major agricultural center in Nigeria. Around three-fourths of the total state population performs jobs that are agricultural in nature. Cowpeas, maize, millet, rice, and sorghum are the primary food crops that are dominantly cultivated in Kano for the necessities of the locals.
Cotton and groundnuts are Kano’s primary agricultural crops for industrial utilization and exportation. Groundnuts have served as among the most important sources of income for the state. Kano State is also one of the biggest exporters of skins and hides. Its exported tanned leather is considered one of the best worldwide
4. Ease of Transportation
While it is a know fact that ease transportation boost economic growth, Kano is easily accessible by air, road, and rail. The Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport operates flights coming in from other airports in countries within and outside Africa. The state is also served by major road transport companies and an inter-state train station.
5. Daily Trade Volumes
Boosting of daily trade volumes of over N20 Billion, Kano’s economy is primarily fueled by the exportation of raw resources, with agriculture being the primary source of income for the state
In 2021, Kano got the second highest VAT allocation in Nigeria, with totals of N47. 08 billion, representing 4.6 percent of VAT generated by states.
Conclusion
Kano State’s status as the “Center of Commerce” is well-deserved, given its strategic location, diverse industrial base, agricultural prowess, efficient transportation networks, and robust daily trade volumes. This state continues to play a crucial role in driving Nigeria’s economic growth.