Urbanization and the Emergence of New (Specialized) Markets in Kano Metropolis, 1973-2001

Abstract

The urbanisation process is not a new phenomenon in Kano Metropolis. However, following the attainment of independence in Nigeria, coupled with the creation of states in 1967 by the military administration of General Yakubu Gowon, Kano Metropolis, being the capital city of Kano State and the commercial nerve centre of the state, continues to experience the urbanisation process. This urbanisation process was associated with various developments, such as population growth, spatial expansion, as well as the development of new commercial activities, amongst others. This paper examines the emergence of new markets as an aspect of the development of new commercial activities in Kano Metropolis. The paper argues that rapid urbanization contributed to the emergence of new markets in Kano Metropolis. The paper found out that old Kano city Kurmi Market, which was established since the precolonial period and the Sabon Gari and Kantin Kwari Markets, which were established during the colonial period, became congested and inadequate to cater for the needs of the people of Kano Metropolis in the post-colonial period. Therefore, this created the need for more markets in Kano Metropolis.