Young artisans in Kano State are turning locally sourced clay into attractive household and decorative products, combining traditional pottery skills with modern designs to create jobs and generate income.
A survey found dozens of young potters displaying clay pots, flower vases, decorative jars, water coolers and other wares at roadside pottery clusters in Wudil Local Government Area. The products are hand-moulded, dried, fired in traditional kilns and decorated to meet changing consumer tastes.
The artisans said pottery provides a reliable source of livelihood and helps young people acquire vocational skills. Jamilu, one of the potters, said the craft had supported his family for years and allowed him to train apprentices. Others noted that demand often increases during weekends and festive periods, while social media has helped them reach customers beyond Kano.
Despite competition from imported household items, the artisans said many customers still prefer clay products because of their affordability, durability, natural cooling properties and cultural value. However, they identified limited access to finance, poor infrastructure and rising transportation costs as major challenges.
Customers and community members called for government and development-partner support through modern kilns, skills training, improved packaging and better market access. They said such interventions could help young artisans expand their businesses while preserving an important part of the state’s cultural heritage.
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