How Kano Emerged World’s 9th Most Populous City


 

How Kano Emerged World’s 9th Most Populous City



By

Joshua Bilkisu Swatkasah 


Kano has emerged as the world’s ninth most populous city, with an estimated 17.5 million residents, according to the World Population Review 2026 report. The figure places the ancient commercial city ahead of Lagos, New York and Istanbul, and makes it Africa’s second-largest city after Kinshasa. Kano’s population has grown from about 3 million in 1991 to over 17.5 million in 2026, with projections indicating it could surpass 20 million by 2030.


Experts attribute the rapid growth to high natural population increase, migration, commercial activities and Kano’s strategic position as a major trading hub in northern Nigeria. The city has also attracted thousands of people displaced by insecurity in parts of the North-East and North-West, while its markets, industries, educational institutions and healthcare facilities continue to draw residents from within and outside the state.


However, analysts warn that the population boom could become a major challenge if not properly managed. Rapid growth is already putting pressure on housing, roads, transportation, healthcare, education, water supply and sanitation. Environmental concerns, including poor waste management, deforestation, flooding and air pollution, are also increasing, while limited job opportunities for the city’s largely youthful population could fuel unemployment, poverty and social unrest.


Experts say Kano’s growing population can become an economic advantage if government invests urgently in infrastructure, electricity, manufacturing, agriculture, modern transportation, education and skills development. Historian Dr. Ibrahim Ado Kurawa also stressed the need for better sanitation, public health management and productive economic activities. With proper planning and inclusive development, analysts believe Kano can turn its status as a global megacity into an opportunity for economic growth rather than a burden.


#NexviewTv#NexviewNews#NexviewUpdate#2026#BreakingNews#KanoState#MostPopulousState#9thCity#WorldPopulationReview#SecondLargestInAfrica#17.5Million#Nigeria

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