Kano, city in northern Nigeria, capital of Kano State. The city has several districts, including an industrial center (Bompai) and the old city, which is walled and contains many clay houses. The principal industries include the production of peanuts and the manufacture of morocco leather goods, metalware, and cotton. In addition, Kano has a large trade in the farm produce and livestock of the surrounding area. Kano State Institute for Higher Education is here. The Kano region was one of the seven original Hausa states, dating from AD900. Islam was adopted probably between the 12th and 14th centuries. The area was taken by the Fulani in the 19th century and held by them until 1903, when it was seized by the British. Population (1995 estimate) 657,300.
