A short, incomplete list of people from the Hausa world. Some were Fulani scholars who wrote in Hausa and shaped Hausa history, some are known mostly through tradition. Each has a chapter or a Wikipedia article for further reading.
Usman dan Fodio (1754–1817)
Scholar and reformer who led the 1804 jihad and founded the Sokoto Caliphate.
Nana Asma’u (1793–1864)
Poet, historian and teacher, daughter of dan Fodio, who organised a network of women teachers.
Queen Amina of Zazzau
Warrior queen of Zazzau remembered in tradition. Her dates are debated (see the chapter on Cities).
Abubakar Imam (1911–1981)
Writer and first Hausa editor of Gaskiya Ta Fi Kwabo, compiler of Magana Jari Ce.
Mamman Shata (1923–1999)
Katsina singer and improviser, honoured by universities and governments.
Aminu Kano (1920–1983)
Teacher and politician who led NEPU and spoke for the commoners.
Ahmadu Bello (1910–1966)
The Sardauna of Sokoto and Premier of the Northern Region.
Balaraba Ramat Yakubu
Novelist from Kano, born in 1959, and a leader of Hausa “love literature”; her work has been filmed and translated into English.
Many other people, from scholars to singers to athletes, deserve a place here. Suggestions are welcome through the contact page.