ZAMFARA STATE
Brief History
Zamfara State is a Nigerian state, located in the northwest region of the country with 14 local government areas. Zamfara state was carved out from the old Sokoto State in October 1st, 1996. The capital of Zamfara State is Gusau (The word ‘Gusau’ means “To Get Better”; the city is the traditional city of Gusau Emirate, the town was founded during the Fulani Jihad under the Sokoto Caliphate by Mallam Muhammadu Sambo, (Dan Ashafa) a disciple of the Sheikh Usman Dan Fodio. Gusau Emirate Council is the current traditional institution inside the city boundaries of Gusau, and under the authority of the Government of Zamfara State. The area today called Zamfara state was one of the old states like Kano, Katsina, Biram (Hadejia), Gobir, Kabi and Zazzau. The earliest inhabitants of Zamfara were said to have been hunters and giants. Zamfara Kingdom was established in the 11th century and flourished up to 16th century as a city-state. Its capital has shifted with the fortunes of the kingdom from place to place like Dutsi and Birnin Zamfara. In the first half of the 18th century, its then capital Birnin Zamfara was destroyed by the Gobir Kingdom and a new capital was established in Anka by the second half of the 19th century. It became part of the Sokoto Caliphate after the 1804 Jihad by Usman dan Fodio. At the wake of British colonialism, the emerging town of Gusau became an important commercial and administrative center with road and rail networks passing through it. With the creation of states during the Gowon Administration, Zamfara Kingdom became part of the then North West state and later the Sokoto State. The people of Zamfara have over the years struggled for autonomy, but it was not until 1996 that the then military administration of the late General Sani Abacha detached the Zamfara State from Sokoto State. Of the 36 states, Zamfara is the 7th largest in area and 20th most populous with an estimated population of 9,278,873 as of 2006 census. Zamfara state is named after Zamfara Kingdom, one of the old Hausa states, and nicknamed as “Farming Is Our Pride”.
The major ethnic groups living in Zamfara State are the Hausa and Fulani, while other ethnic communities include Gwari, Kamuku, Kambari, Dukawa, Bussawa and Zabarma. Others include the Igbo, Yoruba, Kanuri, Nupe and Tiv. Agriculture and gold mining are the state’s main occupations and the central source of income. Irrigation is required for cereals and legumes, hence the slogan “Farming Is Our Pride“.
Zamfara State – Farming Is Our Pride. (Photo Credit: cometonigeria.com)
Zamfara State Traditional Rulers. (Photo Credit: Kundin Saraku Nan Zamfara via Facebook)
Kwatarkwashi Rock in Zamfara State. (Photo Credit: Dauda1123 via commons.m.wikipedia.com)
Festivals and Traditions
There are different festivals in Zamfara state, aimed at celebrating their culture and heritage. These include;
- Durbar Festival: The Durbar Festival dates back hundreds of years to the time when the Emirate (state) in the North used horses in warfare. During this period, each town, district, and nobility household was expected to contribute a regiment to the defense of the Emirate. The Durbar provides illuminating perspective to the display of horses, regalia and spectacular horseman ship to bring about colour, pump and pageantry to the joy of spectators. Durbar is a spectacular horse procession festival organized by traditional rulers, especially the Emirs in Northern Nigeria. The Royal Parade take place when the Emirs honor distinguished guests with a special treat or during Eid Sallah celebration and these cuts across ethnic barriers being a period of celebration for all Muslims all over the world.
Zamfara Durbar. (Photo Credit: nigeriagalleria.com)
- Sharo Festival: The Fulani people’s Sharo celebration, also known as the Shadi festival, serves as a gateway for Fulani boys to reach manhood and marry up to four wives. The Sharo festival is held twice a year among Fulani communities, once during the dry season when guinea corn is ready to harvest and once during the Muslim Eid-el-Kabir feast. The flogging festival is mainly held in open areas such as markets, fields, and village squares and lasts for a week. Dignitaries from both within and beyond the Fulani country, as well as Nigeria, are in attendance. The festival begins with a gallant show of acrobatics, magic, dances, and songs performed by lovely maidens with sweet vocals. The flogging session, where young yet powerful guys demonstrate bravery by refusing to be whipped, is the most anticipated part of the Sharo festival. Beautiful girls lead a bunch of bare-chested unmarried boys to the center of the arena at the start of the flogging session. Each contender’s family prays and recites mantras during the flogging so that their representative will not be shamed. Though the severe whipping often leaves marks on the contenders, it is part of their cultural heritage that such a practice is a sign and display of courage. The crowd’s loud cheers and beautiful drumbeats increase hopes as contestants assess their opponents. The families of the contenders watch and pray that their sons will not be disgraced, for a son who cannot withstand the flogging brings shame to the family. If a contestant surrenders, he will be perceived as not being manly enough. However, if he survives the flogging, he will be welcomed and celebrated by his family and supporters. During the festival, to prevent major damage such as blindness, there is always a provision for a referee to oversee the floggings. The challenger raises the cane in the referee’s direction and’ lands it on the back of the contender, who is intended to be dancing, singing, laughing, and yelling for more in a parody of his opponent. History has it that once the contenders survive the flogging, they are seen as men and are eyed by beautiful ladies. They would also be able to marry up to four wives, as stipulated in the Islamic religion, if they have the capability of managing them.
Sharo Festival. (Photo Credit: historyofyesterday.com)
- Kokowa Wrestling Festival: The Kokowa Wrestling Festival is one of the major festivals in Zamfara State, it is a cultural festival where young men try to show their supremacy over other young men in a wrestling match. This festival is usually celebrated during the dry season in the village square. The young men who will compete will come out in the middle of the square where they will be commanded to show their strength. The wrestler that first falls the opponent wins the match and is rewarded accordingly. The winner of the wrestling match command high degree of respect among his peers and also among women. Spectators hang around the square, chanting songs to cheer the wrestler they like up to victory.
Kokawa Wrestling Festival. (Photo Credit: today.ng/sport)
- Bikin Daukan Mikiya: This one of the old festival celebrated by the Kwatarkwashi’s people. According to Alhaji Mohammed, the Secretary of Kwatarkwashi Emirate; “the festival used to be an annual event and we call it ‘Bikin Daukan Mikiya’, meaning, the eagle ceremony. It was a ceremony where only healthy and strong youths took part. They would be beating drums for them and they would be dancing. They would climb to the peak of the rock and go straight to the biggest cave where several eagles lived then. Those eagles that lived in the cave were very big and fearful. When the crowd gets there, the strong youths using jazz would enter the cave and catch one of the eagles and tie it up. The eagles are too big. When you open wide the two feathers, it towers you. They will then gather and carry it down the rock to the palace where they will dance round with it before killing it”. (source: dailytrust.com)
Kwatarkwashi Rock. (Photo Credit: nigeriagalleria.com)
Religion
Gusau Central Mosque, Zamfara State. (Photo Credit: @elmahdeey via Twitter)
Islam is the principal and major religion of Zamfara state. Christianity also has many adherents. The original native religions also remain but they have the fewest followers. These religions are mainly practiced in ancient settlements like Dutsi and Kwatarkwashi. Zamfara was the first state in Nigeria to introduce Sharia Law during the tenure of Ahmad Sani Yerima, the former Governor of the state.
Languages
Hausa is the official language of the state. Other main languages spoken in Zamfara are English, French, Fulfulde, Arabic; minority populations also speak languages like: Yoruba and Igbo. The Kainji languages C’Lela and Gwamhi-Wuri are spoken in Gummi LGA.
Tourists Attractions and Locations
Kwartarkwashi Rock: The Kwatarkwashi rock was during pre-Islamic period considered to be the site of Iskoki (spirit) worship. A powerful spirit was said to have resided on it. As a result some hunters settled around the foot of the rock and founded Kwatarkwashi town. There are some caves in this rock that several people can hide inside. The biggest cave can contain one thousand people conveniently. In the days of war, women, children and the elderly people of Kwatarkwashi usually hide in the cave while able young men go out to battle the enemies. This assured the Kwatarkwashi warriors that the people kept in the cave are safe and protected from external aggression. And when a war becomes too serious, Kwatarkwashi warriors used to ran into the caves and hide too. But now nobody is allowed to enter the caves because they are too deep and dark, it is difficult to see inside and even to determine the depth and the people are suspecting the wild animals and reptiles may be hiding in them. Kwatarkwashi is just 12km away from Gusau.
Kwatarkwashi Rock in Zamfara State. (Photo Credit: Dauda1123 via commons.m.wikipedia.com)
Category: Nature, Landmark, History & Relaxation.
Location: Kwatarkwashi Town, Bungudu LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Ruwan Kura Natural Spring Water: At the other side of Kwatarkwashi Rock, there is village called
Kura. And the spring water coming from the rock is called ‘Ruwan Kura’. The spring water at Kura village doesn’t dry up. It runs throughout the year, the day and night. The water is always very cold and always very clean, the water has no odour and it also doesn’t any taste. The water is hiding under rocks, you cannot see where it is coming out from. The environment is very cool.
Kwatarkwashi Rock. (Photo Credit: nigeriagalleria.com)
Category: Landmark, Nature & Relaxation.
Location: Kura Village, Kwatarkwashi Town, Bungudu LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Kanoma Hills and Rock Formations: The Kanoma people were the 19th century hunters that lived atop the Kanoma hill which provided them with protection against enemies during tribal war. The Kanoma hill is therefore a test for the daring climber. Kanoma is in Maru Local Government Area; a distance of about 34km from Gusau. Kanoma Hills is a sprawling rock formation, and the sight as well as the spread of the formations is enchanting to both natives and visitors alike.
Catergory: Relaxation, Nature & Landmark.
Location: Maru Local Government Area, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Kuyambana Game Reserve: This is a vast forest area that stretches from the Dajin Rugu to the Kontagora Forest. Wild animals of all kinds such as Elephants, Lions, and Hyena etc can be seen in their natural habitat. Kuyambana Game Reserve was set aside by the government for the preservation of plants and animals, especially the endangered species. This area stretches from the Dajin Rugu to the Kontagora forest. Kuyambana Game Reserve is a safe haven for animals
like elephants, lions, and hyenas as the government has restricted hunting and human activities in this area. It is about 100km from Gusau.
Kuyambana Game Reserve. (Photo Credit: nigeriagalleria.com)
Kuyambana Game Reserve. (Photo Credit: hotels.ng) Category: Landmark, Nature & Relaxation.
Location: Kuyambana, Maru LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Ruins of Yargoje’s Court Kuyambana: Yargoje (a Queen that once ruled Zamfara) was a powerful queen sometimes at par with Queen Amina of Zazzau. She reigned between 1310 and 1350 during which she moved the capital of Zamfara from Dutsi to Kuyambana. Ruins of Yargoje’s Court Kuyambana was submitted the site to UNESCO as a potential World Heritage Center in November 1995 by the Nigerian government. The Kuyambana ruins were built on and around a granite inselberg with two peaks. They were protected by a ditch and a bank between five and seven meters high, topped by a rubble wall. In areas where the wall passes over bare rock, it is built of mud block with loopholes. Around the hillside there are some low free-stone walls. Within the enclosed area are several well-preserved mud structures, and several level sites where buildings may once have stood. The walls were constructed of natural coursed rubble, with alternating layers of stone and subsoil, and have resisted erosion. The ruins of her palace where she used to hold court is still visible in Kuyambana, a village 60km south of Gasau.
Category: Landmark, Nature & Relaxation.
Location: Kuyambana, Maru LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Kiyawa City Walls: Kiyawa was once the most powerful city situated in the eastern plains of Zamfara State. The ruins of the city walls which is dated back to about two hundred and fifty years are still visible at Kiyawa about 35km from Kauran Namoda. The width of the wall is about 2 meters, and the height about 10meters.
Kiyawa City Walls. (Photo Credit: nigeriagalleria.com) Category: Landmark & History.
Location: Kiyawa Town, Kaura Namoda LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Namoda’s Tomb, Kaura Namoda: Namoda was the Alibawa warrior who was appointed Sarkin Yaki of the eastern campaigns of the Sokoto Jihad. After earning a name for himself during the Jihad, he moved southwards, establishing his new base on the banks of River Gagare calling the town Kauran Namoda. He was killed by the forces of Kiyawa in 1802 and his tomb is now a place of visit by thousands of people yearly.
Namoda’s Tomb, Kaura Namoda. (Photo Credit: nigeriagalleria.com)
Category: Landmark & History.
Location: Kaura Namoda LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Sambo Dan Ashafa’s Tomb, Wonaka: Sambo Dan Ashafa was the founder of Gasua town. He died in 1827 and was buried in Wonaka a village 45 kilometres east of Gasua, is a place of attraction to visitors. Sambo’s descendants are now traditional rulers of Gasua, Wonaka, Yandoto and Ruwan Bore.
Category: History & Landmark.
Location: Wonaka Village, 45 KM from Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Emir of Anika’s Palace: The palace which was built long ago has two gates located at the western part facing the central mosque and it has undergone renovations over time. The palace has a museum in which various artifacts and objects once used in warfare are kept.
Category: Landmark, Culture & History.
Location: Emir’s Palace Anka, Anka LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Kalale Hippopotami Pond: The Kalale Hippopotami Pond is where hippopotamus have found an abode. As amphibians, they crisscross the pond and land for survival. It is a sight to behold. However, make sure you keep respectable distance away from the animals. The hippopotamus
in the Kalale Hippopotami Pond have become notorious for visiting homes to take away food items of the residents of Dangulbi neighborhood.
Kalale Hippopotami Pond. (Photo Credit: thewillnigeria.com) Category: Landmark, Nature & Relaxation.
Location: Dangulbi Town, Maru LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Zamfara State Museum: Located at the premises of J.B Yakubu Secretariat, Gusau, the museum is maintained by Zamfara State History Bureau and it houses a significant collection of artifacts and relics of Zamfara Kingdom.
Category: Culture, Landmark & History.
Location: J.B Yakubu Secretariat Complex, Gusau, Zamfara State. Nigeria.
- Bakolori Dam: The Bakalori Dam was built in 1974. Bakolori Dam constructed on the Rima River some 65km Northwest of Gasau, the dam is a multi-purpose reservoir designed to provide water for domestic, industrial and irrigation purposes. The length of the Dam covers some 8km and is capable of containing 340 million cubic meters of water annually. Bakalori dam is known for its irrigation and hydro-electric power potentials. Frequently visited by students, engineers and tourist who want to go on a tour of the magnificent facility.
Bakalori Dam. (Photo Credit: triming.org)
Location: Rima River, Bakolori, 65 KM Northwest of Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Gusau Dam: The Gusau Dam holds a reservoir on the Sokoto River just upstream from Gusau, capital of Zamfara State in Nigeria. It supplies water to the city and neighboring communities. In 2006, the dam collapsed, killing 40 people and destroying 500 homes.
Location: Birnin Ruwa, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- National Gallery of Art Gusau: The National Gallery of Art is a parastatal of the Federal Ministry of Information and Culture, Nigeria responsible for the collection, preservation, documentation and presentation of Nigeria’s contemporary plastic arts, with headquarters in Abuja but with branches in the six geo-political zones of the Country. National Gallery of Art Gusau is one of the branches of North-west geo-political zone.
Category: Art, Culture & History.
Location: 29 Canteen Road, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri; 8am-5pm.
- Sardauna Memorial Stadium: The Sardauna Memorial Stadium is a multi-use stadium in Gusau, Nigeria. It is currently used mostly for football matches and is home to Zamfara United FC of the Nigerian Premier League. The stadium has a capacity of 5,000 people.
Location: Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Tudun Wada Market: This is a major market in the heart of Gusau metropolis, the no 1 place you need to visit in Gusau for your basic needs. It is where you can get almost anything that you need for cooking, clothing, electronic devices, drinks etc. This market is one of the biggest markets in Gusau.
Tudun Wada Market Gusau. (Photo Credit: google.com)
Tudun Wada Market Gusau. (Photo Credit: google.com) Category: Shopping.
Location: Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun; 6am-11pm.
- Gusau Yam Market: The Gusau Yam Market is one of the popular markets in Zamfara State, where yams are sold at reasonable amount and in large quantities.
Gusau Yam Market. (Photo Credit: google.com)
Gusau Yam Market. (Photo Credit: google.com) Category: Shopping & Relaxation.
Location: Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun; 7am-6pm.
- Shinkafi International Market: This is a weekly international market located in Shinkafi town,the socioeconomic activities of the town defines its international market status attracting traders and merchants from all over the federation and others from the neighboring countries like Niger Republic, Cameroon, Togo, Mali, Benin Republics, Chad as well as Ghana.
Category: Shopping & Relaxation.
Location: Shinkafi Town, Shinkafi LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Jifatu Shopping Mall: Jifatu Shopping Mall is fully stocked with groceries, household goods, provisions, cosmetics, toiletries and other accessories with a good customer attendance service and their products at reasonable prices, they are seated in Gusau. This is one mall where you can buy all you need in Gusau as most other shops sells mostly Hausa materials. Here, you can get products made locally and even internationally.
Jifatu Shopping Mall, Gusau. (Photo Credit: hotels.ng)
Category: Shopping & Relaxation.
Location: Zaria-Sokoto Road, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun;8am-9pm.
- B Yakubu State Secretariat: The J.B Yakubu State Secretariat is the permanent administrative office of the Zamfara State Government. Here, all state agencies and parastatals are quartered. As such, this is one of the most important places in the state. The State Secretariat Complex was named after Colonel (retired) Jibril Bala Yakubu, the first Administrator of Zamfara State after it was created from part of Sokoto State.
J.B Yakubu State Secretariat Complex, Gusau. (Photo Credit: Dalhatu Liman via google.com)
Location: J.B Yakubu Secretariat Complex, Along Olusegun Obasanjo Drive, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria
- Sambo Dan Ashafa International Cargo Airport Gusau: The construction of Sambo Dan Ashafa
International Cargo Airport Gusau is currently ongoing by the Zamfara State Governor, His Excellency Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle’s led administration. The airport project was initiated by Former Governor Mahmud Shinkafi in 2008, for an initial contract sum of N10 billion, but the successor Former Governor Abdulaziz Yari did not continue with the project in his eight years in office. Governor Bello Matawalle, however, inherited the project in 2019 and announced his intention to complete and put it to use. Governor Bello Matawalle renamed the airport after Sambo Dan Ashafa to immortalize the founder of Gusau town. The airport project site situated along Gusau – Kaura Namoda road in the outskirts of the state capital is expected to also include the revival of the Bakalori irrigation dam to generate electricity and improve irrigation farming activities. When completed the airport will be used to convey made in Zamfara state goods to other states and countries.
Sambo Dan Ashafa International Cargo Airport, Gusau. (Photo Credit: ait.live) Location: Gusau-Kaura Namoda Road, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Gusau Airstrip: Gusau Airstrip or Gusau Airfield is an airstrip serving Gusau, the capital city of the Zamfara State in Nigeria.
Location: Uguwar Kara-Matazu, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Federal University Gusau: The Federal University Gusau, also known by the acronym FUGUS was one of the last 6 proposed new universities in 2010. The implementation of the first phase of the proposal started in February, 2011, with the establishment of nine Universities, while the second phase involving the remaining three universities including Federal University Gusau was established in 2013, by the Federal Government of Nigeria led by the then President, Goodluck Jonathan, with three faculties, Faculty of Management and Social Science, Faculty of Science, and the Faculty of Humanities and Education. Federal University, Gusau is located in the ancient town of Gusau; the capital city of Zamfara State, Nigeria.
Federal University Gusau. (Photo Credit: fugusau.edu.ng)
Federal University Gusau. (Photo Credit: fugusau.edu.ng) Location: Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Website: fugusau.edu.ng
- Zamfara State University Talata Mafara: Zamfara State University is a public higher learning institution located in Talata Mafara, Zamfara State, Nigeria. It was established in 2018. The university was founded and established in 2018 by the then Ex-governor of Zamfara State, Abdul’aziz Yari for the expansion of higher learning education in the state.
Zamfara State University Talata Mafara. (Photo Credit: saharareporters.com) Location: Zamfara State University, Talata Mafara P.M.B 1167, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda: Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda is a Federal
Government owned tertiary institution located at Kaura-Namoda, Zamfara State, Nigeria. The Institution was founded in June 1983 by President Shehu Shagari. It presently has over 5,000 students. The polytechnic is the only tertiary educational institution in the town with a population (Kaura Namoda) of about 300,000. It currently has seven schools which are: School of Business and Management Studies, School of Engineering Technology, School of
Environmental Studies, School of General Studies, School of Information and Communication Technology, School of Remedial and Basic Studies, and School of Science and Technology. It provides full-time and part-time courses.
Federal Polytechnic, Kaura Namoda. (Photo Credit: fedponam.edu.ng) Location: Federal Polytechnic Kaura Namoda, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Website: fedponam.edu.ng
- Audu Gusau Polytechnic Talata Mafara: The polytechnic was established in 1992 after the former Governor of Sokoto State, Yahaya Abdulkarim signed a bill that established the ‘Talata Mafara Polythecnic’. The Sokoto state government renamed the Polytechnic to ‘Abdu Gusau Polytechnic’ in February, 1995. This was done in honor of the late Engineer Abdu Gusau who died in November, 1994, in recognition of his contribution to the development of the state. Zamfara state of Nigeria was created by a Federal decree in 1996 and this necessitated the relocation of the polytechnic to a new permanent site in Talata Mafara. The Sokoto state government was no longer responsible for it, and it wasn’t legally possible to have an institution belonging to Zamfara state located in Sokoto. The Polytechnic today, is a fully developed institution with 19 departments, and 2524 students, offering programmes in several fields of study. The institution currently offers ND’s (National Diploma) in courses such as; mass communication, banking & finance, civil law, building engineering, electrical engineering and
HND’s (Higher National Diploma) in office technology management, business, bio chemistry, computer science and statistics.
Location: Audu Gusau Polytechnic P.M.B 1021, Talata Mafara, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Website: agpmafara.edu.ng
- Zamfara State NYSC Secretariat: This is the administrative office of the National Youth Service Corps in Zamfara State.
Location: NYSC Secretariat Sokoto Road, P.M.B 1026, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri; 8am-4pm.
Tel: 08036317176
Office Lines: 08064618455
Email: zamfara@nysc.gov.ng
- NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Tsafe: The NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp ground is where the 3 weeks NYSC Orientation Course take place.
NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Tsafe. (Photo Credit: hotels.ng)
Location: NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp, Beside FRSC Office, Tsafe, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Zamfara River: The Zamfara River is a river in the northern part of Nigeria. Originating in Zamfara State, it runs some 250 kilometres (160 mi) west into Kebbi State where it joins with the Sokoto River some 50 kilometres (31 mi) southwest of Birnin Kebbi. At its highest point the Zamfara River flows through an area that is 188 metres (617 ft) above sea level. There are various names for the Zamfara in different regions that it flows through. Some of the most common ones include Gulbi Gindi, Gulbi Zamfara, River Zamfara, and River Gindi.
Location: Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Sokoto River: The Sokoto River (formerly known as Gublin Kebbi) is a river in northwest Nigeria and a tributary of the River Niger. The river’s source is near Funtua in the south of Katsina State, some 275 kilometres (171 mi) in a straight line from Sokoto. It flows northwest passing Gusau in Zamfara State, where the Gusau Dam forms a reservoir that supplies the city with water. Further downstream the river enters Sokoto State where it passes by Sokoto and is joined by the Rima River, then turning south and flowing through Birnin Kebbi in Kebbi State. About 120 kilometres (75 mi) south of Birnin Kebbi, it reaches its confluence with the Niger River. The plains around the river are widely cultivated and the river used as a source of irrigation. The river is also an important means of transport. The Bakolori Dam, about 100 kilometres (62 mi) upstream from Sokoto, is a major reservoir on the Sokoto River. It has had significant impact on downstream floodplain cultivation.
Location: The River Flows Through Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Anka: Anka is a town and Local Government Area of Zamfara State, the famous home of Zamfarawa whose are the origin and founding fathers of Zamfara Kingdom. The earliest inhabitants of Zamfara were said to have been hunters and giants. They established their first settlement at Dutsi, which was the first capital of Zamfara. It extends up to the bend of River Rima to the northwest and River Ka in the south west. Zamfara Kingdom was established in the 11th century and flourished up to 16th century as a city-state. Its capital has shifted with the fortunes of the kingdom from place to place like Dutsi and Birnin Zamfara. In the first half of the 18th century, its then capital Birnin Zamfara, was destroyed by the Gobir Kingdom and a new capital was established in Anka by the second half of the 19th century. Zamfara had many centers of commerce and scholarship that attracted many scholars like the Yandoto city. It became part of the Sokoto Caliphate after the 1804 Jihad by Usman dan Fodio. In fact, Usman Danfodiyo settled in Sabon Gari where Sarkin Zamfara Abarshi had already established a garrison headquarters during the early days of his Jihad as a base from where fought Gobir and Kabi. The official palace of Emir of Zamfarawa is located in Anka Town, the palace which was built long ago has two gates located at the western part facing the central mosque and it has undergone renovations over time. The palace has a museum in which various artifacts and objects once used in warfare are kept.
Category: Landmark, Culture & History.
Location: Anka Town, Anka LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Gusau: The Gusau city was founded around 1799 by Mallam Muhammadu Sambo, (Dan Ashafa) a disciple of the Sheikh Usman Dan Fodio. Gusau District only become prominent after the fall of Yandoto in 1806. Since its emergence as an important settlement in the Sokoto Caliphate, Gusau town attracted attention as an important agricultural and commercial center. At any rate, the town and its surrounding areas had attracted large presence of agriculturists; farmers and livestock rearers, especially cattle owning Fulani. Gusau before the colonial period, was an agrarian society, agriculture was the backbone of the economy of the Gusau, the economic activity of the people during this period consisted mainly in farming with other minor supplementary occupation, Although, like most other Hausa town’s agriculture remained the main activity. In the area there were builders, thatches, butchers, blacksmiths, drummers, praise-singers, e.t.c. The coming of colonialism brought about certain developments and transformations of the societies in Gusau. Colonial infrastructures such as tarred roads, railways, modern stores, businesses as well as modern manufactures were all brought to the town. Similarly, modern residences, offices, schools and hospital were added to the town which aided
and further enhanced its expansion and modernization process. Gusau covers a total land area of approximately 3469 square kilometers. The area within which Gusau is located is interrupted by few little rocky outcrops, such as hills of Mareri and Dokau. Gusau enjoys a tropical type of climate largely controlled by two masses, namely the tropical and maritime. Gusau become the capital city of Zamfara State on 1st October, 1996 after it is carved out from Sokoto State.
Gusau City. (Photo Credit: Mo Productions via Youtube)
Gusau City. (Photo Credit: MokaCoffee via flickr.com)
Category: Landmark, Culture & History.
Location: Gusau City, Gusau LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria
- Shinkafi: In the early days of 1802 before the Jihad of Usman Danfodio, an Islamic scholar named Mallan Muhammadu Zabo, one of the ancestors of the Borno Empire migrated along the east of the area. He led an entourage in search of green pasture for their flocks. Mallan Zabo was wealthy and took with him many flocks, birds, horses, his wives and children as well as some slaves. It is also evident that the entire entourage that came along with him were part of the Barebari people that settled firstly in a nearby Village called ‘Badarawa’. The entourage later stopped at a valley near a river they named “Tafkin Kaiwa” which they made as their first settlement. The Katsinawa merchant also found the place a good area for the settlement, the present days Gidan Dankwara. Another group of people came from Kwazare Town of Niger Republic together with their leader called Adagwargo, who belong to Rahazawa ethnic background, the present Gidan Sarkin Ruwa in Barhazawa area. This entourage also came with their herds and branched to the same valley where they found shelter and water to feed their herds. As they interacts socially with the first settlers, the Barebari, results to a growing population and the area become convenient for many stop-over traders, who used spend nights for they commercial undertakings. Yet another group of hunters who came around the valley in search of wild animals stars to settle there. The area developed and became very big, with Mamman as their leader, the ruler of Badarawa, Magaji Bello, decided to come and re-settle in Gonar Mai Saje, (‘Yan Kukoki) where there was abundance of water. The people settled and began to cultivate rice along the valley in large quantity, due to their ability in rice production; the community was named ‘Shinkafi’ from the hausa name of rice shinkafa. Due to insecurity of the times, Magaji Bello erected a wall (called Ganuwa) around the settlement which was enforced by a circular ditch. The descendants of Magaji Bello are the present Gidan Doka. The socioeconomic activities of the town defines its international market status attracting traders and merchants from all over the federation and others from the neighboring countries like Niger Republic, Cameroon, Togo, Mali, Benin Republics, Chad as well as Ghana. There also exists some
Tobacco leaf buying centres, namely Nigerian Tobacco Company (NTC) and Philp Morris Tobacco Company others were cottage industries. The disciplined, religious and economic natures of the settlement conglomerate and attracted other settlements from Kamarawa, Shanawa,
Badarawa, Isa and Sabon-Birnin Gobir, and such engineered the then Sarkin Gobir of Isa to place keen interest on the settlement of Shinkafi. The town developed tremendously to become the headquarters of the then Isa Native Authority in the North-West State, Isa Local Government
Area in the then Sokoto State and the present Shinkafi Local Government Area of Zamfara State,
Nigeria. The town leadership used to be District Head from 1835 to 2000, when the First Executive Governor of Zamfara, Sen. Ahmed Sani (Yariman Bakura) upgraded it to an Emirate.
Category: Landmark, Culture & History.
Location: Shinkafi Town, Shinkafi LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria
- Gummi: Gummi is a town and Local Government Area of Zamfara State. Gummi was carved out of the former larger Sokoto state, which included the present Zamfara and Kebbi states. Gummi has a long history of relative peace and security. The majorities of people of the area are Hausa Fulani and Muslims and are predominantly farmers; the principal crop is calabash. In
Gummi local government there is also a tribe called Zamfarawa whose are the origin and
founding fathers of Gummi, Anka and Talata Mafara which makes Zamfara as a state. Also Gummi local government divided into two state house of assembly constituencies, Gummi east and Gummi west, because of its population.
Gathering firewood in Rural Zamfara. (Photo Credit: CDC Global wikipedia.org via flickr.com) Category: Lamdmark, History & Culture.
Location: Gummi Town, Gummi LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Kaura Namoda: Kaura Namoda is a town and Local Government Area of Zamfara State, Kaura Namoda was founded in 1807 by Muhammadu Namoda who was a prince of Alibawa ruling family of Zurmi and an 18th century military genius. It is served by a station at the terminus of a branch line of the western line of the national railway network. In 2014, this line is proposed to be rehabilitated and extended to Niamey in Niger.
Baobab Trees in Zamfara State. (Photo Credit: Ikani via commons.m.wikipedia.com)
Namoda’s Tomb, Kaura Namoda. (Photo Credit: nigeriagalleria.com) Category: Landmark, Culture & History.
Location: Kaura Namoda Town, Kaura Namoda LGA, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Bilkebab Chops N Coffee: At this restaurant, you can just relax and have a meal, eat snacks or have coffee and hang out with friends. They offer Dine-in, Takeaway and Delivery option services.
Bilkebab Chops N Coffee, Gusau. (Photo Credit: Bilkebab Chops N Coffee via google.com) Category: Restaurant.
Location: Old MTN Office, Zaria Road, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat; 8am-10pm.
- Rahama Suya Spot: This is a very nice spot for all kind suya ranging from beef to chicken and its affordable.
Rahama Suya Spot, Gusau. (Photo Credit: Hassan Faruk Maradun via google.com) Category: Restaurant.
Location: Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun; 24hours.
- Mama Bello Restaurant: A restaurant in Gusau, the capital city of Zamfara State. The restaurant offer dine-in, and takeaway services.
Category: Restaurant.
Location: Audu Gusau Polytechnic, Mini-Market, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: 8am-9:35pm.
- Food Palace: This restaurant is providing the best quality standards of food recipes and superior services at a greater value, clean and welcoming environment.
Food Palace, Gusau. (Photo Credit: Ahmad Marafa via google.com)
Category: Restaurant.
Location: Sokoto Road, Opposite Government House, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun; 7am-10pm.
- Savanna Restaurant: Enjoy a sumptuous meal, relax, hangout with friends and have fun.
Category: Restaurant.
Location: Beside Jifatu Shopping Mall, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: 8am-8pm.
- Zion Restaurant: They serve different sorts of foods. They offer Dine-in, Takeaway and delivery option services.
Category: Restaurant.
Location: Opposite Motor Park, Talata Mafara, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat; 7am-8pm.
- Twinkles Restaurant And Fast Foods: The Twinkles Restaurant And Fast Foods is one of the most stylish restaurants in the Gusau city offering you unapparelled food whenever you ask.
Twinkles Restaurant And Fast Foods, Gusau. (Photo Credit: Engr. Abdulrahman Abdul via google.com) Category: Restaurant.
Location: Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun; 7am-10pm.
- Sunny Fast Food & Restaurant: Starving and looking for a restaurant to grab a quick lunch before your next appointment? Sunny Fast Food & Restaurant is a quick-service restaurant with sit-in options specially for you.
Sunny Fast Food & Restaurant, Gusau. (Photo Credit: Anas Yau via google.com) Category: Restaurant.
Location: Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun; 7am-11pm.
- Fulbe Villa Restaurant & Fast Food: Fulbe Villa Restaurant & Fast Food is a first-grade quick service restaurant that offers the best varieties of quality fast food products and first-class services.
Fulbe Villa Restaurant & Fast Food, Gusau. (Photo Credit: Godswill Moses via google.com)
Category: Restaurant.
Location: Opposite Mareri Juma’at Mosque, Lalan, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
- Food Forest Restaurant: This restaurant is providing the best quality standards of food recipes and superior services at a greater value, clean and welcoming environment.
Food Forest Restaurant, Gusau. (Photo Credit: Apityan Tume via google.com) Category: Restaurant.
Location: Tudun Wada, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat; 7:30am-9:30pm.
- Unity Restaurant: This is a good restaurant in Gusau city offering affordable variety of Nigerian dishes.
Unity Restaurant, Gusau. (Photo Credit: Musa Saleh Mallus via google.com)
Category: Restaurant.
Location: Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Opening Hours: Mon-Sun; 8am-10pm.
Hotels and Accommodations
- NA-1st Hotel, Gusau: 22,420 Naira average per night
- City King Hotel, Gusau: 12,250 Naira average per night
- Karma Guest Inn, Gusau: 12,000 Naira average per night
- Green Scenery Hotel, Gusau: 10,000 Naira average per night
- Fulbe Villa Restaurant & Fast Food, Gusau: 10,000 Naira average per night
- Jaiz Guest House, Gusau: 9,360 Naira average per night
- Crystal Merit Suite and Apartment, Gusau: 9,440 Naira average per night
- Al Fash Hotel, Gusau: 8,775 Naira average per night
- Princolls Holiday Inn, Gusau: 5.500 Naira average per night
- Bliss Luxury Guest Inn, Gusau: 5,000 Naira average per night
- Top Town Hotel Ltd, Gusau: 4,250 Naira average per night
- Travellers Guest Inn, Gusau: 4,000 Naira average per night
- Damji Guest Inn, Gusau: 3,800 Naira average per night
- Moonlight Hotel, Gusau: 3,500 Naira average per night
- Hamdala Guest House, Gusau: 3,000 Naira average per night
- Copas Haven Motel, Gusau: 1,695 Naira average per night
Transport
To travel to Zamfara State, there are various transport services to be used but the major ones are;
- Air Transport: If you want to travels to Zamfara State from Lagos by air, you will have to board a flight from Lagos to Sokoto, and then join a bus to Gusau. Sokoto to Gusau by road is about 3hours (206,8km). As the Zamfara State International Cargo Airport is currently under construction.
Sambo Dan Ashafa International Cargo Airport, Gusau. (Photo Credit: ait.live)
- Road Transport: The major road transport operators from Lagos to Gusau are Young Shall Grow Transport, Cross Country Ltd, GUO Transport, Landstar Express Limited, amidst many more. Fare is also dependent on factors like location, time, special service request, and season but 13,000 Naira on average. Aside traffic and stopovers, the journey from Lagos to Zamfara State by bus on average is for 16h 10m.
Zamfara State Transport Authority, Gusau. (Photo Credit: Zamfara State Transport Authority via Facebook)
- Rail Transport: The rail system of transportation was first in introduced to Zamfara around 1926 by the British Colonial Government, the rail line started from Zaria to Gusau and then to Kaura Namoda connecting it to Lagos-Kano railway. In a bold move to create jobs and guarantee food security, the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) in collaboration with Nigeria Incentives-Based Risk Sharing System for Agricultural Lending (NIRSAL) resumed cattle train service with the delivary of 500 cows and rams from Gusau to Lagos, the service which was suspended 30 years ago.
Train Service with the Delivary of 500 cows and rams from Gusau to Lagos. (Photo Credit: @OvieNews via Twitter)
Train Service with the Delivary of 500 cows and rams from Gusau to Lagos. (Photo Credit: @OvieNews via Twitter)
MINISTRY OF TOURISM AND HOTELS MANAGEMENT, ZAMFARA STATE:
The Zamfara State Ministry of Tourism and Hotels Management was created in October, 2021 alongside three other ministries by Governor Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle. The Ministry of Tourism and Hotels Management is saddled with the responsibility of promoting Zamfara State’s tourism potentials through adequate information and orientation.
Location: J.B Yakubu State Secretariat Complex, Gusau, Zamfara State Nigeria.
Tel:
Email: info@zmsg.gov.ng
Website: zamfara.gov.ng/
Opening Hours: Mon-Sat; 8am-4pm.