In Kano State, a booming cattle trade is making waves as Wudil Cattle Market, Northern Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, records jaw-dropping transactions worth N50 billion weekly. This bustling market, which operates every Friday and Saturday, has cemented its position as one of the largest hubs for cattle trading in the region, according to Alhaji Ahmad Dauda, the Acting Chairman of the Wudil Cattle Market Union.
“We see transactions worth N50 billion every week, with over three million cows traded in the market,” Dauda disclosed during a press briefing in Kano. He explained that the cattle are sourced not only from Kano but also from neighboring states such as Adamawa, Bauchi, Plateau, Taraba, Sokoto, Borno, and Yobe, highlighting Wudil’s reach as a central hub for the Northern livestock economy.
A Gateway to the South
The Wudil market’s economic ripple extends far beyond Kano, with its cattle feeding the meat demands of the South-South, South-East, and South-West regions of Nigeria. From Wednesday, trailers and trucks carrying livestock begin rolling into the market, with trading activities peaking over the weekend.
“Wudil is not just Kano’s pride; it’s a key player in Nigeria’s agricultural economy,” Dauda added.
The market’s vibrant operations owe much to the Kano State government, which has invested in essential infrastructure to ensure its smooth functioning. Facilities such as solar lighting, drains, and public toilets have been provided to improve traders’ and buyers’ experiences.
Challenges Amidst Growth
Despite its economic significance, Wudil Cattle Market faces critical challenges, particularly during the rainy season. The inadequate drainage system often leaves the market waterlogged, deterring buyers and complicating business.
Dauda lamented, “The rains make the market nearly impassable, and many customers are discouraged from coming. We appeal to the government to improve the drainage system to keep the market accessible year-round.”
Another pressing concern is security. Over the years, traders have reported incidents of theft, with significant sums of money stolen. Dauda called on the government to enhance security measures, ensuring the safety of traders and their investments.
Government Efforts to Modernize
The Kano State Agro-Pastoral Development Project (KSADP) has played a pivotal role in upgrading cattle markets across the state, including Wudil. Infrastructure Engineer Zahraddeen Zarewa revealed that the government, in collaboration with the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) and the Lives and Livelihoods Fund (LLF), has invested N350 million in improving facilities in five major cattle markets.
“The projects include the construction of toilet facilities, boreholes, solar lighting, offices, and drainage systems in Wudil, Dambatta, Getso, Dunbulum, and Falgore markets,” Zarewa said.
While acknowledging the progress made, Zarewa emphasized the need for further work, particularly in drainage. He assured stakeholders that the KSADP would carry out additional drainage projects before the program concludes in June 2025.
A Hub of Opportunities
The sheer scale of activities at Wudil Market underscores its importance in Nigeria’s livestock industry. The market not only provides income for traders but also creates jobs for transporters, laborers, and service providers who depend on its weekly operations.
However, experts argue that the government must address the market’s lingering challenges to unlock its full potential. Improved infrastructure and robust security measures are essential to sustaining Wudil’s status as a key driver of Nigeria’s cattle trade.
