Kano, Nigeria

Capital City

With a population of over 2.6 million, Kano is Nigeria's second largest city after Lagos. This bustling northern hub has a long history as a major commercial center, but the reality on the ground is a persistent headache of bureaucracy and sporadic blackouts that hamper modern industry. The climate is brutally hot for much of the year, peaking in April, while the city has also suffered from periodic famines and religious violence. Kano may appeal to the intrepid trader or cotton merchant, but for most foreigners, the hassles likely outweigh the rewards.