Which city was the greatest of the early west african trading centers and the seat of a muslim university?

The correct answer is Timbuktu. It became the greatest city because it was a melting pot for traders from all possible nations because it was wealthy and developed compared to other places. It was a cultural and a trading center because the ruler knew how to rule properly and made Timbuktu one of the greatest cities in the world.

The answer is Timbuktu. It is an ancient city in Mali, located in 20 km north of the River Niger. The town is the capital of the Timbuktu Region, one of the eight administrative regions of Mali. It is best known for its well-known Djinguereber Mosque and admired Sankore University, both of which were established in the early 1300s under the period in office of the Mali Empire, most famous ruler, Mansa Musa.