The newly inaugurated Hajaj-ZOEC Digital Market in Kano State is projected to generate about ₦50 billion in annual revenue and create more than 100,000 direct and indirect jobs, as the state strengthens its position as a major commercial and distribution hub for electrical and electronic products.
The market, commissioned on Saturday at the former Luxurious Bus Park along New Road, Tudun Wada, Sabon Gari, was developed through a Public-Private Partnership involving the Kano State Government, Hajaj ZOEC Real Estate Limited and ZOEC Construction.
Speaking during the inauguration, the Chief Executive Officer of Hajaj ZOEC Real Estate Limited, Alhaji Jamilu Abdussalam, described the facility as one of the largest dedicated electrical and electronics markets in West Africa.
He said the complex would accommodate more than 1,500 shops, bringing traders under one roof while providing modern infrastructure to support commerce and investment.
“We believe this market is not only an opportunity for Kano State or Northern Nigeria but for the entire African continent. Instead of travelling all the way to China to purchase goods in bulk, traders will be able to come to Kano and place their orders here,” he said.
Abdussalam disclosed that the project, valued at between ₦25 billion and ₦30 billion, has already attracted companies from China and Egypt, while between 60 and 65 per cent of the available shops have been sold.
The market also features parking for about 700 vehicles, underground storage for more than 30 forty-foot containers, a central firefighting system and modern sprinkler installations.
According to him, over 8,000 people benefited from the construction phase, while more than 100,000 direct and indirect jobs are expected to be created once the market becomes fully operational.
Minister of State for Housing and Urban Development, Yusuf Ata, represented by his Special Assistant (Technical), Kabir Dutse, said the Federal Government had simplified Public-Private Partnership arrangements to attract more private investment into infrastructure.
He described the market as a reflection of the growing importance of digitalisation in commerce, noting that technology-driven investments would continue to shape Nigeria’s economic future.
The commissioning attracted government officials, investors, business leaders and development partners, who expressed optimism that the Hajaj-ZOEC Digital Market would stimulate trade, attract investment and further establish Kano as Northern Nigeria’s leading commercial hub.
