Art and Culture

By Salim Yunusa

The formal inscription of the annual Kano Durbar by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on its Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity is a welcome development to not just Kano but Nigeria as a whole. The nomination, adopted on the 6th of December, 2024, in Paraguay, at the 19th session of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, makes it the 8th element to be inscribed from Nigeria. UNESCO is a specialised agency of the United Nations that promotes peace and security through international cooperation in education, science, culture, and communication.

According to many sources, the Kano durbar is the world’s largest procession of colourful horses. It has evolved with the history, religion, culture, and tradition of the Kano people over time. It is usually done to mark the Islamic holidays of Eid-el-Fitr and Eid-el-Adha, among other special celebrations. While other similar durbars are carried across almost all Northern Nigerian cities such as Zaria, Katsina, Bauchi, Gombe, Hadejia, Maiduguri and Sokoto, the Kano durbar stands out due to the sheer number of participants, tourists, spectators and days of celebrations.

This global recognition is a significant milestone, celebrating one of Nigeria’s most vibrant cultural festivals. Renowned for its majestic horse parades, traditional regalia, and music, the Kano Durbar reflects Northern Nigeria’s cultural pride and rich heritage. While the jubilations over this achievement are justified, it is essential to explore the opportunities and responsibilities that come with the UNESCO inscription.

 Beyond the celebrations, stakeholders must now prioritise preservation, promotion, and leveraging this global acknowledgement to foster tourism, break down stereotypes, and drive cultural and economic development in Kano and Northern Nigeria as a whole.

Kano—and Northern Nigeria as a whole—is a goldmine of culture and tradition preserved for ages, although these are currently under threat of extinction. The Dye Pits of Kofar Mata, founded in 1498 and spanning five centuries, are at risk of becoming extinct due to disrepair and unsustainable practices in recent times. The walled city of Kano is gradually disappearing to give way to commercial structures along the busy roads of Kano. There is a growing threat of climate change eroding sites like Dala Hills, Gidan Makama and others due to neglect. Sustainable protection and preservation of sites like this must be done for future generations.

This particular UNESCO inscription underscores the need to preserve the Kano Durbar for future generations through strategic documentation and archiving of the festival’s history, rites, and performances. High-quality visual content and written materials can help maintain its essence while creating accessible records for global audiences. This will effectively engage the youth, which is vital to ensure the tradition remains dynamic.

In addition, effective and efficient collaboration between the Kano Emirate council, non-governmental organisations (such as MACOBA, UNESCO, Global Shapers, etc.) and government agencies (NICO, Ministry of Arts and Culture, Tourism Development, etc.) is necessary to provide funding, technical support, and regulations that safeguard the festival’s cultural integrity.

In a state like Kano, boasting the highest population in the country and being the most populous in Northern Nigeria, the Kano Durbar has the potential to become a cornerstone of Nigeria’s cultural tourism, becoming a blueprint for other durbars across the region. To achieve this, a well-coordinated tourism strategy is essential. This could include partnering with airlines, hotels, and tour operators to create attractive travel packages for domestic and international tourists. Marketing campaigns highlighting the Durbar as a unique travel experience should be launched across social media platforms and international media outlets. Collaborations with influencers and travel bloggers can also amplify its appeal.

Furthermore, enhancing the visitor experience is key. Infrastructure around festival venues should be improved, with better roads, accommodations, and festival-specific amenities. Creating dedicated viewing platforms and cultural villages can also enrich the experience for attendees, making the Durbar more accessible and enjoyable.

Beyond cultural pride, the inscription opens doors for economic development. Investments in Durbar-themed merchandise, souvenirs, and artisanal crafts can generate revenue for local communities. E-commerce platforms can facilitate the sale of these items to a global audience.

Additionally, recognising the festival as an international heritage can attract global partnerships and funding for sustainable development initiatives in the region. Furthermore, technology offers endless possibilities to promote the Kano Durbar. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences can bring the Durbar to audiences unable to attend physically. Comprehensive online platforms can offer ticket sales, merchandise, and interactive content, ensuring year-round engagement with the festival. These digital initiatives can transform the Durbar from a localised event into a global cultural phenomenon.

Finally, the festival could serve as a hub for cultural exchange, inviting participants from other regions and countries to share their traditions and learn about the Durbar, fostering mutual respect and understanding. It could be so much more, with proper organisation and intention by the stakeholders involved.

The UNESCO inscription of the Kano Durbar is a momentous achievement that places the festival on the global stage. However, this recognition comes with responsibilities. By preserving its legacy, harnessing its tourism potential, and leveraging technology and cultural exchange, stakeholders can transform the Durbar into a beacon of Nigeria’s cultural excellence. Beyond the jubilations lies an opportunity to turn this acknowledgement into a catalyst for cultural pride, unity, and economic development. The time to act is now.

Salim Yunusa writes from Abuja, Nigeria and can be reached at syunusa@gmail.com.

By Waliyat Ayomide Oseni

In an era increasingly defined by globalisation and interconnectedness, cultural diversity has become pivotal in shaping educational frameworks worldwide. In Nigeria, a nation rich in ethnic plurality and cultural heritage, cultural diversity within educational institutions assumes strategic importance.

Cultural diversity refers to various cultural, ethnic, and social backgrounds represented within a community. Nigeria is often called a “melting pot” due to its numerous ethnic groups, languages, customs, and traditions. This diversity can enrich the educational experience, providing students with a broader worldview and enhancing their understanding of global issues. 

Nigeria is a diverse country with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 400 languages spoken, reflecting a rich cultural tapestry. This diversity is fundamental to Nigerian society and contributes to its vibrancy and uniqueness. Ethnic groups such as the Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, and Igbo, among others, each bring their traditions, languages, and customs, creating a mosaic of cultures across the nation. 

Religious diversity is also prominent, with Islam, Christianity, and traditional African religions coexisting harmoniously. This cultural richness is celebrated through various festivals, ceremonies, and events, showcasing the country’s diverse heritage and promoting unity among its people.

One of the most significant benefits of cultural diversity in Nigerian educational institutions is promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Diverse classrooms encourage students to engage with differing viewpoints, challengepreconceived notions, and foster respect for others’ beliefs and practices. This exposure sharpens analytical skills andcultivates empathy and social awareness, which are crucial for functioning in a diverse society and workplace. 

Diversity also fuels creativity and innovation in the learning process. When students are encouraged to collaborate across cultural boundaries, they combine unique experiences and ideas, leading to imaginative solutions to complex challenges. 

For instance, blending cultural perspectives in group projects can enhance creativity and result in more comprehensive and multifaceted outcomes. Educational leaders who emphasise collaboration among students from diverse backgrounds can harness this potential, creating an environment that nurtures innovative thinking.

In addition, extracurricular activities such as cultural festivals, language clubs, and international exchange programs can enrich students’ learning experiences and promote cultural appreciation. These initiatives foster community and belonging while encouraging students to celebrate their unique identities.

In conclusion, cultural diversity within Nigerian educational institutions offers many benefits, including enriched learning experiences, enhanced critical thinking, and improved interpersonal skills. Educators play a vital role in embracing this diversity and fostering an inclusive environment where every student can thrive. As Nigeria continues to navigate its identity within a global landscape, prioritising cultural diversity in education will undoubtedly enrich the learning experiences of future generations and contribute to the nation’s development.

Waliyat Ayomide Oseni wrote from the Department of Mass Communications, Bayero University, Kano.

By Uzair Adam

Former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar were among the notable figures who attended the wedding Fatiha of the daughter of former Kano State Governor, Engr. Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, in Kano on Saturday.

The grand event also brought together the groom and bride’s fathers, prominent businessman Dahiru Mangal and Rabiu Kwankwaso, alongside Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and his deputy, Aminu Abdusalam Gwarzo.

The wedding Fatiha was held at the Palace of the 16th Emir of Kano, Muhammad Sanusi II, and drew dignitaries from across the country.

The ceremony marked another significant gathering of Nigeria’s political and business elite, reflecting the strong ties among the nation’s leaders.

By Zainab Haruna Abba

Social media has become an integral part of teenagers’ lives, but its impact on their well-being and mental health is a topic of concern.

Social media allows teenagers to connect with friends and family, share their thoughts and experiences, and access information and resources. It can also provide a platform for self-expression and creativity. Additionally, social media can be a powerful tool for raising awareness about important issues and promoting social change.

The impact of social media on teenagers can be significant. It’s not just a case of losing sleep and getting distracted during the day; social media can have far-reaching adverse effects on a teen’s mental health.

As the adolescent brain is still developing, it’s more vulnerable to time online. And since teens can sometimes struggle to self-regulate their screen time, their exposure and the risk of harm increases. As a result, teens’ social media use often correlates with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, envy and loneliness.

However, parents can take steps to encourage responsible use of social media and limit its negative effects. Setting reasonable limits on social media use is crucial. Parents should talk to their teens about avoiding interference with important activities such as sleep, meals, or homework. Establishing a bedtime routine that avoids electronic media use and keeping cellphones and tablets out of bedrooms is also essential.

Monitoring teens’ social media accounts regularly is vital. Parents should let their teens know they will check their accounts and follow through. Explaining what’s not okay to share or do online, such as gossiping, spreading rumours, bullying, or damaging someone’s reputation, is also important.

Encouraging face-to-face contact with friends is particularly important for teens who are vulnerable to social anxiety disorder. Parents should talk openly about social media and its potential impact, sharing their experiences and habits and asking teens how they use it and how it makes them feel.

Reminding teens that social media is full of unrealistic images can help mitigate negative effects. Parents can also help protect their teens by setting guidelines and teaching responsible use.

An estimated 4.9 billion people worldwide are expected to use social media in 2023. For teens who grow up with technology, those digital platforms are woven into the fabric of their lives.

“Social media is here to stay,” said Mary Alvord, PhD, a clinical psychologist in Maryland and adjunct professor at George Washington University and a member of the APA panel. That doesn’t mean we have to accept its dangers, however. “Just as we decide when kids are old enough to drive, and we teach them to be good drivers, we can establish guidelines and teach children to use social media safely,” Alvord said.

By Abdurrazak Muktar

The DanBello’s standard of classrooms is not a far-fetched goal, but one that can be achieved with commitment and gradual effort. Improvement in educational infrastructure, like any meaningful change, requires time and sustained focus. Often, people expect change to happen overnight, but real progress takes time. Just as one cannot earn a degree in a day, transforming a nation’s educational facilities must be seen as a long-term goal. What is needed is dedication and a clear plan to move towards this vision step by step.

One essential way to initiate this transformation is for governments to commit resources towards upgrading school facilities. Imagine if a government will dedicate an entire year’s income specifically for renovating schools, bringing them up to the DanBello standard. If each subsequent administration followed the same path, in 30 years or even less, the educational landscape of the country would be entirely different. Each government would leave behind a legacy of improvement, contributing to a better future for generations of students.

While the government plays a crucial role, it is equally important that they avoid falling back on excuses. Too often, we hear claims of limited resources or competing priorities. However, the reality is that every journey, no matter how long, begins with a single step.

The excuse of limited resources should not hinder the progress that could be made by taking that first step. Even modest improvements made consistently will accumulate into significant advancements over time.

In addition to the government’s efforts, other sectors of the society should also play a role in transforming education. Commercial banks, companies, and philanthropists have the capacity to contribute meaningfully to this cause. These institutions and individuals can partner with the government to provide funding, materials and expertise. Such collaboration would not only expedite the renovation of schools but also ensure the maintenance of high standards.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) can be an excellent platform through which companies support education. By investing in schools and improving infrastructure, companies not only contribute to the public good but also create a more educated workforce for the future.

Many global corporations have long understood that investing in education is investing in their future workforce, and local businesses should embrace the same perspective.

Philanthropists can also have a powerful impact. Individuals with the means to give can sponsor entire schools or contribute to educational projects that raise the standard of learning environments. Their contributions may come in the form of scholarships, infrastructure improvements, or the provision of resources like books and technology. Such generosity can help bridge the gap where government funding falls short.

In conclusion, achieving the DanBello standard of classrooms is within reach, but it requires the concerted effort of all stakeholders. Governments, businesses, and philanthropists all have important roles to play in transforming the educational system. Change may not happen overnight, but with a gradual, focused approach and the commitment of diverse sectors of society, the vision of a high-standard education for all can be realized. The journey has begun, and every step taken brings us closer to a brighter future.

Abdurrazak Muktar Makarfi
08038219091

By Fatima Musa Yakubu

Family is often called the best gift of life, a place of love and care. Living with family should feel like a blessing, even when some members are so strict.

Parents, even when they are tough, love their children and want the best for their future. As the 12th child in a family of eighteen, I was surrounded by my brothers and sisters. We laughed, played, argued and shared meals together. It was very cheerful and happy moments which I didn’t fully value and appreciate—until I when lost it.

Everything changed when my aunt’s husband died. In Islam, a widow must stay inside her home for 4 months and 10 days, only leaving for exceptionally important excuses. Since my aunt had no children, my grandmother decided I should stay with her to keep her company. I was excited at first, imagining that I would be treated with kindness and have meals all to myself. I couldn’t have been more wrong.

One Saturday morning, after prayers, I wasn’t feeling well and decided to rest. Suddenly, a sharp slap landed on my face. My aunt, angry for reasons I didn’t know or understand, dragged me out of the bed and beat me badly. Then, she told me my new daily tasks: fetching water from a faraway well, washing dishes, clothes and her car, and sweeping the compound—all before 10am. I was only ten years old then.

According to a report by the International Labour Organization (ILO), more than 15 million children in Nigeria are forced into child labor. Many of these children, like me, are treated unfairly in their own homes by relatives. Instead of going to school, we do heavy chores and endure painful experiences. I was taken out of school for years and suffered in silence.

I wanted to tell my parents about my aunt’s behavior, but I was too afraid. She threatened me, and I feared what she would do if I spoke up. When I made her angry, she beat me with a copper wire, hit my head against the wall or dragged me across the floor. Sadly, this kind of abuses happen to many children living with relatives.

A UNICEF report says that nearly 60% of children in Nigeria who live with extended family face some kind of abuse, often hidden as “discipline.”

Life with my aunt wasn’t just about hard work—it was lonely. I felt isolated and scared all the time. Meanwhile, I watched other children in my neighborhood, also living with relatives, being treated like with kindness of a family. One girl, who I thought was living with her parents, was actually staying with her guardians. They treated her like a queen, sending her to the best school and giving her everything she needed. It was painful to see such a difference.

My suffering ended when I turned fifteen. My aunt, who had treated me like a servant, passed away after falling sick with typhoid. Even7though she hurt me, I felt sad when she died. Over time, I learned to forgive her. As Maya Angelou once said, “We often forgive those who have wronged us, not for their sake, but for our own peace.” This has been true for me.

Today, I am grateful to be alive and well. I am happily married, with two children, and I have returned to school to continue my studies. Looking back, I realize that after every hardship, relief eventually comes. My story is just one example of many.

In Nigeria, more than 7 million children live with extended family due to poverty, loss of parents, or other reasons. Many of them suffer, just like I did. Unfortunately, their stories often remain unheard. According to Human Rights Watch, abuse of children living with relatives is a big problem that needs more attention.

I am sharing my story to let others know that this issue is real and must be addressed. Children who live with relatives deserve the same love and care that their own parents would give them. The Nigerian government and organizations fighting for children’s rights must do more to protect these vulnerable children. Laws against child abuse need to be enforced, so no child has to suffer in silence like me.

To my readers, remember this: after every storm, there is calm. If you are going through a tough time, hold on, relief will come. And for those who can help, we must speak up for children who cannot defend themselves. Every child deserves a life without fear.

Fatima Musa Yakubu writes from the Department of Mass communication,
Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The executive Governor of Bauchi state, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Muhammed (Kaura) has approved the appointment of Alhaji Haruna Yunusa Danyaya, the eldest son of the late Emir as the 17th Emir of Ningi with 1st class status.

This decision is in exercise of the powers conferred on him by cap.24 Item 3 (1) of the laws of Bauchi state of Nigeria ( Appointment of Emirs/ Chiefs and Deposition 1991) and the recommendations of the kingmakers.

The appointment was conveyed in a letter signed by the secretary to the Bauchi state government, Barrister Ibrahim Muhammad Kashim.

Bauchi state government expresses its confidence in the new Emir’s ability to continue the legacy of his late father in fostering unity, peace and development in the Ningi Emirate and Bauchi state as a whole.

Bauchi state government under the leadership of Governor Bala Muhammed remains committed to supporting the traditional institution in the state as they play a crucial role in maintaining peace and progress in our communities.

Governor Bala Muhammed prayed for the peaceful repose of the late Emir’s soul, also extend his warm felicitations and prayers for good health, long life and successful reign of the new Emir.

The new Emir of Ningi, Alhaji Haruna Yunusa Danyaya was born in Ningi in 1956 and he was the immediate past Chiroman Ningi. He is happly married with children.

By Sabiu Abdullahi 

The Vice Chancellor of Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto, Prof. L.S. Bilbis, has invited the general public to a virtual symposium titled “FINAFINAN HAUSA DA ZAMANTAKEWAR MAGIDANTA: INA AKA DOSA?”

The symposium, scheduled for July 10, 2024, at 10:00 AM West Central Africa time, will explore the intersection of Hausa culture and religion. 

Featuring in the event are Prof. A.M. Bunza, Prof. I.A. Malumfashi, Sheikh Aminu Ibrahim Daurawa, Ado Ahmad Gidan Dabino, and Dr. Hadiza Salihu Koko.

Prof. Abdallah Uba Adamu will chair the cultural event. 

The virtual symposium can be accessed via Zoom using the meeting ID: 619 7601 3625 and passcode: 632535. 

The university invites all interested individuals to join the virtual symposium and engage in the discussion on Hausa culture and religion. 

However, no further details on the specific topics or themes to be discussed have been provided.

By Uzair Adam Imam

The Federal High Court in Kano will deliver a judgment today on the legality of the Kano Emirates Council Repeal Law 2024.

The law, enacted by Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, led to the removal of Aminu Ado Bayero as the 15th Emir of Kano and the reversal of the creation of four emirates – Bichi, Rano, Karaye, and Gaya – by his predecessor, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.

The law also led to the re-appointment of Muhammadu Sanusi II, who was dethroned in 2020, as the 16th Emir of Kano.

Aminu Babba Danagundi, a kingmaker in the former Kano emirate, challenged the law in court, seeking a declaration of its nullity.

The judge, Justice Abdullahi Muhammad Liman, will also rule on a motion to stay the proceedings filed by the State Attorney General and Kano State Government.

The ruling will determine the fate of Sanusi and Bayero in the protracted emirate tussle.

By Lawan Bukar Maigana

The rise of Umar Bush, a popular Hausa skitmaker notorious for insulting people, to stardom is unbelievably incomprehensible, justifying Allah’s incredible ability to enrich whom He wishes regardless of their decency or otherwise.

It is Allah alone who knows how he got there. Many people thought his popularity was going to be short-lived, like that of Alhaji Rufai, but that is not the case. He’s now targeted by skitmakers in the Southern part of Nigeria. God is great! New deals are underway.

His unimaginable progress reminds me of the time when an elderly man looked at me in our area during Ramadan and said that I would become a governor. However, a few of my closest friends, whom I thought would be the first to say ‘Insha Allah’, were the ones who contested against me. Indeed, life is greater than our sentiments, and it shall happen if He wills.

When he first came to the limelight comedically, many people thought he was a madman who needed intervention from a psychiatric hospital because of the way he speaks and relates to people. Some netizens even donated thousands of Naira, amounting to over a million Naira, which was later transparently given to his relatives after he had a misunderstanding with his manager, who is also from Kano, labelling it as ‘his end.’

A day later, his manager posted on his personal Facebook page announcing their resettlement with Umar Bush, assuring their audience of their continued efforts to reach stardom.

Ahmed Musa, a renowned Nigerian footballer who plays both in and outside Nigeria, saw Umar Bush’s comical clips trending on Instagram and Facebook and decided to host him at his residence in Kano. Inviting him was a big drama, as he had many misunderstandings and disagreements with all of them, insulting his managers and tagging one of them as his ‘enemy of progress.’

When given lots of Maltina and asked to extend it to one of the team members whom he perceived as an antagonist, he started a fresh drama, insulting him unstoppably until Ahmed Musa intervened and gave him one million naira.

A few days ago, he allegedly signed a ₦100m deal with Ziptol, a company that produces powder detergent, among other detergents. He’s now a millionaire, and I foresee bigger deals coming his way.

Perhaps it is my turn to be insulted comically when he sees this article, especially if he is told that I demanded he pay me for writing about his uncommon sagacious rise to stardom amidst all odds. If you know him or know anyone close to him, tell him that he should pay for this article; else, I will join Sadiq to disturb his life.

Lawan Bukar Maigana writes from Maiduguri and can be reached via email: lawanbukarmaigana@gmail.com.