Abstract
Ecotourism is extremely important for sustainable development and preservation of cultural heritage, particularly in ancient cities such as Kano, Nigeria. This research explores the multifaceted relationship between ecotourism, architectural heritage, and sustainability in the context of Kano’s historic resources, namely the old city, its ancient defensive walls, and associated cultural monuments. The research takes a qualitative methodology of direct site observation, interviews with stakeholders like heritage professionals, tourists, and locals, and community engagement sessions to unfold the perception, value, and level of involvement of various groups in the conservation of these heritage sites. Furthermore, it illustrates a keen communal regard for the architectural and cultural significance of Kano’s heritage but recognises crucial lacunae in preservation planning, infrastructural support, and participatory inclusiveness of communities. These limitations pose very real challenges to the success of a model of sustainable ecotourism in the region. Informing context-specific, adaptive solutions from successful ecotourism experience in other parts of the world, the study proposes strategies that seek to integrate heritage conservation in Kano. It also emphasises the potentials of ecotourism in local economic transformation, cultural identity enhancement, and environmental stewardship. Finally, the paper concludes with a set of practical and policy-specific recommendations specific to architects, urban planners, cultural heritage managers, and government agencies in order to have a more integrated and sustainable pattern of tourism development that is attuned to the socio-cultural and environmental dynamics of Kano.