Kano plans digitalization of markets to enhance financial transparency

The Kano State government has announced plans to digitalize its markets to enhance financial transparency, track economic turnover, and improve revenue generation.

SolaceBase reports that the initiative was a key focus of discussions between the Commissioner for Commerce, Investment and Industry, Alhaji Shehu Wada Sagagi, and the Emirate Council Committee on Economic and Social Matters on Sunday. 

Sagagi emphasized that market digitalization would enable the government to monitor financial activities and better understand the flow of money within Kano. 

He stated, “We discussed the need to digitalise our markets so that the government can track economic transactions and know the exact amount of money circulating.

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“This will help in policy formulation and economic planning,” the commissioner stated. 

Beyond digitalization, the meeting also brainstorm on strategies for reviving industries and strengthening Kano’s competitive advantage in sectors such as garment production, textiles, and soap making.

Sagagi stressed the importance of ensuring an efficient power supply to the recently established garment industries across the state’s 44 local government areas. 

Chairman of the Emirate Council Committee, Alhaji Shehu Muhammad, Sarkin Shanun Kano, highlighted the committee’s role in advising the government on economic matters.

He noted that Kano’s economy has historically been driven by commerce and industry, making it essential to modernize operations and reduce reliance on external markets. 

“Our people spend billions monthly travelling to Aba and Onitsha for textiles and soap, despite having the resources here in Kano.

“The commissioner is already working on these challenges, and we expect to see significant progress in the coming weeks,” Muhammad said. 

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The discussions also touched on the reactivation of the Kano State Committee on Economy and Investment, which had been dormant for years.

The commissioner assured that efforts would be made to revive the committee to further drive economic reforms and strengthen government-private sector collaboration. 

As the state moves toward a more structured and transparent economic framework, stakeholders have expressed optimism that these initiatives will not only boost local production but also position Kano as a stronger player in Nigeria’s commercial landscape.