Jigawa State, located in the northwestern region of Nigeria, is known for its agrarian economy, cultural richness, and bustling market scenes. From ancient trading centers to modern commercial hubs, the state is home to several local markets that play an essential role in the socioeconomic development of the region. These markets serve not just as centers of commerce but also as meeting grounds for cultural exchange and social interaction among different communities.
In this blog post, we explore a comprehensive list of prominent local markets in Jigawa State, their locations, key commodities, and how they contribute to both local and cross-border trade.
1. Maigatari International Market
Location: Maigatari town, Maigatari Local Government Area
Market Day(s): Weekly
Notable For: Cross-border trade and livestock
Maigatari International Market is one of the largest and most influential markets in Jigawa State. Situated at the border with the Niger Republic, this market serves as a gateway for international trade, especially in livestock. Traders from Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and even Cameroon converge here weekly to buy and sell cattle, goats, sheep, donkeys, and camels.
Beyond livestock, Maigatari Market is a major hub for food items, grains, and household essentials. The market’s economic impact extends beyond Jigawa, contributing significantly to the regional economy of West Africa.
2. Shuwarin Market
Location: Shuwarin, Kiyawa Local Government Area
Market Day(s): Monday
Notable For: Date fruits and local produce
Shuwarin Market is strategically located along the Kano-Maiduguri highway, making it a well-visited market by travelers and transporters. One of the most notable products here is date fruit, which is grown locally and sold in large quantities. The market also features a wide range of grains, vegetables, and traditional items.
Its proximity to a major highway makes it easily accessible, ensuring constant foot traffic and a steady supply of goods and services.
3. Garki Market
Location: Garki town, Garki Local Government Area
Market Day(s): Tuesday
Notable For: Grains, legumes, and handmade crafts
Garki is famous for being the site of the World Health Organization’s malaria research in the 1970s, but today it thrives as a vibrant commercial hub. The Garki Market plays a central role in the sale of millet, maize, groundnuts, and beans. The market also includes sections for crafts and textiles, making it a unique blend of agriculture and artistry.
4. Gujungu Market
Location: Gujungu town, Taura Local Government Area
Market Day(s): Thursday
Notable For: Grains, fish, textiles, and livestock
Gujungu is one of the most active trading centers in Jigawa. Thanks to its strategic location at the intersection of Nguru and Hadejia roads, it attracts traders from across northern Nigeria and beyond. The market’s offerings range from fresh produce to livestock, traditional garments, herbs, and imported items from neighboring countries.
Gujungu’s role in cross-border trade makes it a key driver in Jigawa’s local economy.
5. Kazaure Market
Location: Kazaure, Kazaure Local Government Area
Market Day(s): Friday
Notable For: Groundnuts, cotton, onions, and livestock
Kazaure Market is a crucial point for agricultural produce in Jigawa. Peanuts (groundnuts) from here are often transported to larger commercial cities like Kano for processing and export. Cotton and onions are also major items traded in this market, alongside cattle and sheep.
Kazaure is historically significant, and its market continues to uphold the town’s reputation as a trade hub.
6. Hadejia Fish Market
Location: Hadejia town, Hadejia Local Government Area
Market Day(s): Daily
Notable For: Fish (fresh and dried)
As one of the largest fish markets in northern Nigeria, Hadejia Fish Market is a vital center for the fish trade. Located near the Hadejia River, the market deals in a wide variety of freshwater fish, both fresh and preserved. Traders from all over northern Nigeria and neighboring states come here to buy in bulk.
The market supports not only fishermen and traders but also women involved in fish drying and packaging, contributing to rural employment.
7. Dutse Ultra Modern Market
Location: Dutse, capital of Jigawa State
Market Day(s): Daily
Notable For: Clothing, electronics, food items, general goods
Unlike the rural, open-air markets, the Dutse Ultra Modern Market provides a more urban, organized shopping experience. Located in the state capital, it includes stalls and shops selling foodstuffs, textiles, electronics, building materials, and cosmetics. The market is clean, secure, and well-planned, catering to both middle-class consumers and bulk traders.
8. Sara Market
Location: Sara town, Gwaram Local Government Area
Market Day(s): Tuesday
Notable For: Livestock, grains, and household goods
Sara Market operates on a weekly basis and is one of the most patronized rural markets in Gwaram LGA. It is a central meeting point for farmers, traders, and buyers dealing in livestock, maize, sorghum, and millet. The market is known for its affordability and wide selection of local goods.
9. Kupsa Market
Location: Kupsa, Birniwa Local Government Area
Market Day(s): Monday
Notable For: Seasonal farm produce and livestock
Kupsa Market is especially vibrant during harvest seasons when farmers bring in their fresh produce for sale. It is an essential venue for the trade of millet, sesame seeds, vegetables, and live animals. The market contributes to the food distribution chain in the northern region.
10. Auyo Market
Location: Auyo, Auyo Local Government Area
Market Day(s): Friday
Notable For: Grains and vegetables
Auyo Market is another community-focused market that emphasizes the sale of agricultural products. It is especially active during the dry season when irrigation farming peaks. Farmers come from neighboring towns and villages to trade in maize, onions, tomatoes, and peppers.
11. Babura Market
Location: Babura town, Babura Local Government Area
Market Day(s): Friday
Notable For: Household items, livestock, and textiles
Babura Market is a regional shopping hub where residents and traders gather weekly to exchange goods. It features stalls for food, clothing, cooking utensils, and livestock. The market is also a focal point for cultural interaction due to its diversity of visitors.
12. Kanya Market
Location: Kanya village, Babura Local Government Area
Market Day(s): Tuesday
Notable For: Livestock and grains
This rural market plays a key role in supporting farming communities in Babura LGA. It operates on a traditional market cycle and is known for its robust trade in grains and goats.
Final Thoughts
Markets in Jigawa State do more than just facilitate buying and selling—they serve as engines of economic development, platforms for cross-border trade, and vital links in the agricultural value chain. From the international Maigatari Market to the local but vital Kupsa and Sara Markets, each one contributes uniquely to the livelihood of residents.
Whether you are a trader, investor, or visitor, exploring these markets provides an authentic view of the economic and cultural landscape of Jigawa State.
