Gezawa
Gezawa is a Local Government Area (LGA) in northeastern Kano State, Nigeria. Located about 25 km from the city of Kano, it serves as a semi-rural district with strong ties to agriculture and traditional crafts. The area is known for its markets, Hausa culture, and proximity to the Kano metropolis.
Understand
[edit]Gezawa has an estimated population of over 200,000 (2006 census). Most residents are Hausa and Fulani Muslims engaged in farming, trade, leatherwork, and pottery. The LGA includes several towns and villages, including Jogana, Tumbau, Gawo, and Sarin Gawo. The terrain is largely flat and suitable for crop cultivation such as millet, maize, and groundnuts.
The administrative center is the town of Gezawa, and the area is connected by road to Kano and surrounding LGAs like Gabasawa, Kunchi, and Minjibir.
Get in
[edit]- By road: Gezawa is about 25 km northeast of Kano. You can reach it by taxi, motorcycle, or minibus from Kano motor parks like Unguwa Uku or Yankaba.
- From neighboring LGAs: Roads link Gezawa to Gabasawa, Minjibir, and Kunchi. The roads are mostly paved but may have potholes.
- By air: The nearest airport is Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano, about 40 minutes away by car.
Get around
[edit]- Motorcycles (okada): Most popular transport within towns and between villages.
- Walking: Easy and common within the main town and markets.
- Tricycles (keke napep): Available on busy days or within town center.
- Shared taxis: Occasionally used for inter-village travel.
See
[edit]- Gezawa Central Market: A vibrant market open several days a week, known for foodstuffs, crafts, and livestock.
- Jogana Leather Market: A local spot famous for leather products and raw materials.
- Traditional potteries: In villages like Sarin Gawo, pottery is still made using indigenous techniques.
- Farms and grazing areas: Explore the surrounding agricultural lands and observe seasonal farming practices.
Do
[edit]- Shop at the local markets: Experience the bustle of Hausa trading and buy fresh produce or handmade goods.
- Learn about leatherwork: Observe or participate in the leather crafting process, especially in Jogana.
- Join a festival: If visiting during Eid or local cultural events, attend traditional dances and communal feasts.
Buy
[edit]- Grains and produce: Millet, sorghum, groundnuts, and okra.
- Leather goods: Handmade slippers, wallets, bags, and raw hides.
- Clay pots and calabashes: Locally produced and sold in village markets.
- Spices and snacks: Dried pepper, local sweet treats, and groundnuts.
Eat
[edit]- Tuwo da miya: Thick grain-based meal served with local soups like miyar kuka or taushe.
- Kosai (akara): Fried bean cakes, popular as breakfast.
- Fura da nono: Traditional drink-food made from fermented milk and millet.
- Waina and suya: Rice pancakes and grilled spicy meat.
Food is mostly served in roadside bukas (canteens) and informal stalls. Hygiene varies, so visitors should choose freshly prepared options.
Drink
[edit]- Zobo: Hibiscus drink flavored with ginger or cloves.
- Kunun zaki: A thick, sweet drink made from millet or maize.
- Bottled or sachet water: Recommended for all visitors.
- Soft drinks: Coca-Cola, Fanta, and other brands widely available.
Due to Islamic norms, alcohol is not publicly sold or consumed.
Sleep
[edit]- Local guesthouses: Limited, with basic rooms and amenities. Ask locals or drivers for locations.
- Stay in Kano: Many visitors choose to lodge in Kano city and make day trips to Gezawa.
Connect
[edit]- Mobile networks: MTN, Airtel, Glo, and 9mobile are active.
- Internet: Mostly via mobile data; coverage is fair.
- Electricity: Present but unreliable. Some areas use generators or solar panels.
- Water supply: Comes from wells, boreholes, and community tanks.
- Healthcare: Basic health centers are available in the town.
- Postal code: 713101.
Go next
[edit]- Kano city – Major cultural and economic hub, 25 km away.
- Minjibir – Known for its rural setting and weaving traditions.
- Gabasawa – Neighboring LGA with farming villages and Hausa communities.
- Kunchi – Further northeast, more rural and traditional.
- Jogana – A ward within Gezawa, known for leather and market activity.