The Housing Dilemma in Kano: A Tale of Two Worlds
In the bustling city of Kano, Nigeria’s most populous state, property owners are experiencing a surge in the value of their landed properties. This phenomenon has brought smiles to their faces as they reap the benefits of a booming real estate market. However, this prosperity is not shared by all. Low-income earners are finding themselves increasingly burdened by the rising cost of housing, forcing them to seek affordable options just to meet their basic need for shelter.
Several factors contribute to the soaring prices of properties in Kano. The rising cost of building materials, the provision of essential infrastructure such as access roads, and the overall inflationary trend are among the key drivers behind this increase. As a result, many residents are looking for more affordable alternatives, leading to a growing interest in specific areas known for their relatively lower property costs.
Affordable Properties in Kano
This report highlights five areas in Kano that offer affordable housing options for both rent and outright purchase. These regions have become hotspots for those seeking to balance affordability with the need for a stable living environment.
1. Hotoro/Kawo
Hotoro quarters, located in the Nasarawa Local Government Area, extend to the eastern bye pass and are home to key institutions such as the NNPC depot, Mobile Police Barrack, and CBN staff quarters. Some parts of Hotoro are exclusive to the wealthy, while other areas provide affordable housing for medium and low-income earners.
Mamman Sarina, an estate agent, notes that rents in Hotoro start from N400,000, with some areas lacking pipeborne water and others featuring boreholes, which can increase the rent to N800,000 or even one million naira. For outright purchases, prices range from N20 million and above in densely populated areas known as “awon igiya.”
Kawo, an extension of Hotoro, borders Government Reserved Areas (GRA) like Lamido Crescent and Giginyu. It evolved from the congestion in Kano to accommodate new settlements. Affordable houses are available here, with tenancy rates starting at N400,000 for a two-bedroom apartment.
Wasilu Kawo, a radio anchor, emphasizes the area’s attractiveness due to its proximity to strategic locations such as Giginyu quarter, where you can find the headquarters of the Department of State Services (DSS), Tarauni Market, Nassarawa GRA, and Hotoro. He also highlights the cultural diversity of the area and its appeal to those seeking affordability and convenience.
2. Kwankwasiyya/Amana Cities
These are new cities developed by the Kano State government, featuring luxury duplexes and bungalows. Initially, these estates were isolated and far from the metropolitan areas, leading to underutilization. However, recent efforts by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf have revitalized these areas, encouraging property owners to move in.
The current market value of houses in these cities has significantly increased, with prices ranging from N11 million for a bungalow to N35000 million for a duplex. The constant supply of electricity from the Kano Independent Power Plant and KEDCO has further enhanced the appeal of these areas.
An acting Managing Director of the Kano State Housing Corporation has initiated a clean-up exercise to improve the livability and aesthetic appeal of Kwankwasiyya City, promoting physical occupation by owners or tenants.
3. Jaba/Gama
Jaba, located in the Nasarawa Local Government Area, is another affordable property hotspot. It is densely populated and attracts property investment. Virtually every ethnic group in Nigeria is represented here, and it is near the Aminu Kano International Airport (MAKIA), Nigerian Airforce training school, immigration training school, and NDLEA headquarters.
Ado Fela, an estate agent, mentions that affordable houses start from N15 million, with annual rent ranging from N600,000 up to one million naira depending on the property. Gama, on the other hand, is largely occupied by low-income earners, with house prices ranging from N9 to N10 million in Gama A and Gama B.
4. Danbare
Danbare, close to Bayero University New Site and the popular Janguza Army Barrack, has seen rapid development and attracts investors. Many university workers find the area appealing, and private student hotels are becoming a lucrative business. A mass housing project by the Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development is ongoing, indicating the area’s potential for expansion.
5. Sharada/Ja’in
Sharada, located in the Municipal Local Government Area, is both industrial and residential. Property business is booming here, with factory workers preferring to live close to their workplaces. Rent in Sharada is considered affordable, while those who cannot afford it may look for cheaper options in Ja’in, which is next door.
Conclusion
Despite the challenges faced by low-income earners, Kano continues to witness the emergence of new private housing estates, making it a major construction site. These developments reflect the dynamic nature of the real estate market in the region, offering opportunities for both investors and residents seeking affordable housing solutions.
