The Dichotomy in the Economic Development of Hausa People in Kano, Nigeria: Insight from Norms, Beliefs and Traditions of the Society

Kano State in Nigeria was known to hold a prestigious position as the center of commerce for the nation, economic nerve centre of the Hausas region, and established route for the then well-known Trans-Saharan trade. However, disturbing poverty and unemployment rate were at their peak though given the expectation that entrepreneurial activities of the Hausa people would be effective enough to generate employment opportunities and boost economic activities in the region. Therefore, this study explored on the dichotomous issue in the economic development of the Hausa people in Kano, taking a peep though the society, norms and beliefs of the Hausa people. Literature review was conducted in order to identify those norms, beliefs, traditions of the society that were believed to be significant in retarding the development and progress of the Hausa people. One of the key findings of the study is that women economic development of the Hausa populace has remained at its lowest ebb. In conclusion, a cultural shift was therefore advocated in order to attain a more progressive economic development of Hausa people in Kano.