The history of Northern Nigeria is strewn with tales of wars, robust culture, strivings of an unrelenting people and every saga in between theorem fight for a place in the world. Such a vibrant past has fortunately been well preserved through stories, traditions and structures like the Gidan Makama Museum in Kano State and the Kofar Mata dye pit.
Gidan Makama Museum in Kano still retains its exquisite architectural edifice from its construction in the 15th century. Though it is now a National Museum that holds much of the history of the Hausa land, its origin account is a different tale.
History of Gidan Makama Museum
It all started as a residential compound that the Fulani Emir of Kano Abdullahi Burja built for Rumfa, his grandson and heir to the Emir title. Rumfa was appointed the Makaman of Kano (can be likened to the personal assistant to the King or a District Head), hence the name ‘Gidan Makama’ which translates to House of Makama.
Rumfa stayed there until he moved to his new palace. Successive Makama’s retained the compound as their official accommodation even today.
The Establishment of Gidan Makama Museum in Kano
The entire structure of the Gidan Makama Museum in Kano was built as a royal residential area in the 15th Century. It was however split into three parts by the early 1950s by Lord Lugard who also resided there for a period, one of which now serves as the museum.
The other two are the home of the Makama and a site for a Primary School and a Girls’ Secondary School.
The Museum and its Galleries
The museum is divided into eleven galleries, all exhibiting different artefacts and sectors of life of the Hausa people of Kano.
The Entrance
Welcoming you to the Gidan Makama Museum are two brooding cannons at the entrance. The theme behind these weapons is that they were part of the arsenal left behind by the British invasion of Kano in the early 1900s.
One will also see massive pots allegedly large enough to fit an adult. The most famous tradition says that the pots were buried but the city walls and used by former kings for protection.
Photo Credit: destimap.com
1. Gallery One (Zaure)
True to the archetypal Hausa building design, the Zaure holds architectural materials used by the people of old. One can find pieces like Azara, Jakarsa, and Makuba, to name a few, and pictures of ancient Kano buildings.
The first Kano City gate (Kofar Waika) is also on display here.
2. Gallery Two
Kofar Kabuga – another city gate through which the British invaded and conquered Kano – is one of the items showcased in this gallery. It also records archaeological findings that depict the life of the populace as the city expanded over time. Certain occupations engaged in and materials used are showcased there.
An example is hunting materials like bows and arrows, guns and more.
3. Gallery Three
What you’ll find in this gallery is the religious history of Kano from its inception till the present. It also covers the account of Barbushe (A High Priest) and how he built the Tsumburbura shrine. Likewise, the era of Baguda’s overrun of Kano and how Barbushe’s heirs were obtruded are shown here also.
It also houses war equipment used during battles. Iron Armours, spears, knives and many more are exhibited.
4. Gallery Four
The 19th Century, arguably the most notable century in all of Kano’s history, is the focus of this gallery. The famous Usman Dan Fodio Jihad that ended the Habe reign, can be seen represented through illustrations.
5. Gallery Five
In this gallery, the Kano City War is exhibited. The year 1903 hold the British Invasion and the Kano Civil War. The latter was caused by strife over the chosen successor to Mohammadu Tukur, the then Emir.
This Gidan Makama museum Kano gallery also shows how the British conquered Kano after Northern Nigeria was declared a protectorate by the British Government and Kano refusal to submit.
6. Gallery Six
The Durbar, an event sacred to the Kano people, is uncovered in this gallery. This event is a show of horsemanship, a skill dear to Kano tradition that marks the end of the Ramadan fast. Its relationship with kingship can’t be separated.
It is also used in welcoming prestigious guests to the state.
In line with its present reputation, Kano has been a commerce centre for over five hundred years, pulling trades from all over. You’ll Fons articles from early trade industries like pottery and textile on display in this gallery.
7. Gallery Seven
The introduction of modern amenities like electricity and the first railway line in 1911 that boosted Kano’s economy is depicted here.
8. Gallery Eight
This gallery covers the Islamic background of Kanawa. There is a copy of a handwritten AL-Quran, the pillars of Islam and more info about how Islam came to be in Kano.
9. Gallery Nine
The livelihood and craftsmanship of the Kano people in various industries are shown in gallery nine. It parades how roles (gender and age roles) were demarcated even through designs.
10. Gallery Ten
The true culture of a people is incomplete without their music and musical instruments. The musical instrument of the Kanawas is in array in this gallery. One can see instruments made of wood, aluminium and other materials here.
11. Gallery Eleven
This gallery is all about the traditional Hausa bride’s room. It is also called Dakin Amarya. On exhibit are Taskira, calabashes, tase and more.
Key Individuals of Gidan Makama Museum
Some important individuals involved since the existence of the Gidan Makama Museum Kano are:
i. Emir Abdullahi Burja – The orchestrator of the structure now used as the museum ii. Makama Rumfa – the first occupant of the building whom it is named after.
Location and Opening Hours
The Gidan Makama Musem is located in Emir Palace Road, Wudilawa, Kano City, Kano State.
Opening Hours – The Museum opens every Monday through Sunday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
The entrance fee is N2000 per head.
Activities in Gidan Makama Museum Kano
Excursions and Group Tours
Schools and groups of individuals can schedule tour visits to the museum with prior arrangements with the museum.
Art Club
On Saturdays, the museum coordinates an art club for children to encourage creativity. The art is centred on the Kanawa tradition and civilisation. It is open to children aged 6 – 18 with occasional exhibits of their works.
Tour Guides
The museum provides expert guides to show visitors around and explain the artefacts.
Educational Quizzes and Debates
Secondary schools participate in debates and quizzes organised by the museum. One can catch this very 18th of May which marks the International Museum Day.
Skill Acquisition for Youth
This program trains secondary school leavers from across the state for free. Skills such as tailoring, knitting, bead making, and cookery are part of the curriculum here. In the end, the trainees are issued certificates.
What to Expect
As you go into the Gidan Makama Museum Kano, expect to find historic artefacts that showcase the Kanawas, ancient weapons, and a well-educative guide and be sure to leave with more knowledge about Kano’s Civilisation.
Conclusion
There is so much to know and so many misconceptions to correct about the history of Kano. A good place to start with the learning and unlearning process is at institutions like the Gidan Makama Museum in Kano.
It carries the heritage of the people and should be on everyone’s tour sites list.
FAQs About Gidan Makama Museum in Kano
What is the history of Gidan Makama Museum?
The structure of the museum was first built in the 15th Century by Emir Abdullahi Burja and was intended to be a residential place for the Makama then (Makama Rumfa). Hundreds of years later, Lord Lugard decided to section the area and have part of it used for a museum in the early 1950s. It is called Gidan Makama after the position of the initial occupants of the place.
When was Gidan Makama Museum established?
The edifice was built in the 15th century but the museum itself was designated in the early 1950s.
How do I find my way around all the galleries of the museum?
The museum has provision for tour guides that help to navigate all the galleries while explaining the displays. Once there, you only need to request one.
Does the museum provide accommodation for tourists?
The museum does not provide any sort of accommodation but it is possible to find and lodge at any hotel close to the museum.
Are there any fees involved in getting into the museum?
Yes, the only fee you need to pay is upon entry and is N200 per person.
If you’ve ever been to the Gidan Makama Museum Kano, do tell us what your experience was in the comments. I’d love to hear from you.
The keyword is ‘allegedly.’ Those may be rumors, but specific sources have gotten delegates to admit these payments. Whatever the case may be, this story spotlights one thing: the significant role that party delegates play and their impact on the entire election process.
The one thing on everyone’s mind is how to become a party delegate in Nigeria. This article will guide you through that process and all you need to know about being one of the party delegates in Nigeria.
Who are Delegates, and What do they do?
The average Nigerian political party consists of hundreds of thousands of members who occupy different roles within a party. When the time comes for a party to produce a single flag bearer for an elective position, the obligation falls on the party to nominate a select few out of the thousands. Those few will vote on behalf of the entire party. These chosen ones are the party delegates in Nigeria.
Party delegates are chosen by in-party elections and usually are voted only once. These kinds of delegates are called Ad-Hoc delegates.
Party delegates are of two kinds:
1. Ward Delegates – these are the ones that elect the party’s choice of candidates for the house of representatives, senate, and gubernatorial elections.
2. National Delegates – the delegates vote for the party’s presidential candidates. The national delegates are selected from each local government.
Who are Statutory Delegates?
Past and present public office holders of a political party have the prerogative to be automatic delegates, or at least they did until the National Assembly passed a bill that makes it imperative for all political party delegates to emerge from election. This automatically blots out public office holders from belonging to that group.
However, the billwas said to have been rejigged by the National Assembly just before the start of the primary elections.
Statutory delegates comprise:
Former and current presidents and vice presidents
Governors and deputy governors
Senators, house of representative members, state assembly members
Local government chairs and their deputies
Ward councilors
All local government area chairmen
How Many Party Delegates Are There Per State in Nigeria?
Understanding the different delegates’ types and their functions is crucial as this determines their number, and selection requirements vary.
The ward delegates are chosen from each local government across the country. There are over eight thousand wards, and each party’s guidelines determine the number of representatives per ward.
National delegates are selected through a similar process. This time, only the local governments produce representatives.
APC Delegates List by State
Three APC delegates were chosen per local government.
South West
Lagos – 60, Ogun – 60, Ekiti – 48, Osun – 90, Oyo -99, Ondo – 54,
Total = 411
South South
Akwa Ibom – 93, Cross River – 54, Bayelsa – 24, Delta – 75, Edo – 54, Rivers – 69,
The PDP delegates list took a similar path but picked one delegate per local government.
(774 delegates) plus one each from every state (36 representatives). This brings their total number to 810 delegates.
How Much do Delegates Make?
The matter of delegates and money in Nigeria is a scandalous one and a conversation starter everywhere. The news of representatives being paid from N100,0000 at least per aspirant is no news anymore.
As suspected, the higher the position vied for, the more significant the amount of money party delegates in Nigeria are paid.
Some candidates reportedly demanded a refund of the money given to delegates after losing out on the election that they were promised. Case in point, the son of the former Vice President Adam Sambo. He defended his stand by claiming a refund was only following directives by the major stakeholders in the party to refund the defeated candidates.
As lucrative as this scheme seems, we must analyze the underlying repercussions of encouraging a system that claims to be democratic yet applauds acts of buying and selling votesat a fundamental and crucial point of the electoral process.
Once we begin to enable such conduct, we must be ready to face the consequences head-on when the general elections occur. If voting decisions can be merchandised now, they will indeed repeat themselves.
After all, the same individuals who benefited will be among the numbers voting. This time around, though, they will have recruited followers to come to eat from the pot that they once did.
Nevertheless, there are payments made to delegates by their parties to cover accommodation, transportation, sitting allowance, inconvenience, meals, and more. Many delegates leave their states and homes to participate in the primary elections, usually held where the party’s headquarters is.
How to Become a Party Delegate in Nigeria
After all, has been said and done, nearly all of us are scampering around looking for how to become a delegate. The steps one needs to take to achieve this are pretty straightforward.
1. Join a political party. This goes without saying.
2. Undergo the registration process
purchase the party form
fill it out and submit
pay the fees for registration
collect a membership card
3. Build a reputation and garner support from ward party members. They’re the ones that matter in your journey to becoming a delegate.
4. Show interest, contest, and win delegates election at your ward.
Conclusion
Despite whatever connotation associated with being a party delegate in Nigeria, it cannot be denied the weight it carries in deciding the future of our nation. The onus falls on them to begin our journey to a better Nigeria tomorrow. Their actions create a butterfly effect on our future.
I hope all delegates, present and aspiring, remember honesty is our watchword in this pre-electoral season and uphold all that we fight for as a nation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How are party delegates in Nigeria chosen?
An in-party election chooses Ad-hoc party delegates. This is where members of a party nominate and vote for their representatives in the primary elections. The winners from this become the delegates.
What determines how many delegates a state has?
This number is determined by the party’s ruling policies or guidelines. Some parties decide to pick one delegate per local government. Others go as far as having three representatives. The total number therefore differs. A state with more local governments will consequently have more delegates.
Are delegates paid?
Delegates receive payment to foot their bills during the primary elections.
Who are statutory delegates?
Statutory delegates are office holders that automatically qualify to be a delegate to a party. They are also called automatic delegates. They, unlike the ad-hoc delegates, do not need to be elected.
What is the purpose of having delegates?
Delegates are necessary to help streamline the candidates a party will propose on the national scale for elections. Usually, more than one candidate indicates interest in a position from one party. To have all candidates contest will divide the party’s votes, putting them at a considerable disadvantage.
If you’ve been involved in a political party’s primary election or know any of the party delegates in Nigeria who have, we’d love to read the experience in the comments.
Northern Nigeria is more than just farmlands, settlements, and herds of grazing cows. It is rich culture buried in sceneries of beauty portrayed by nature at its best. Contrary to popular belief, Arewa is blessed with destination sites that will make your vacation worthwhile and give you a treat for your time. Planning to spend some time off with a loved one soon? Then you should check out these Honeymoon destinations in northern Nigeria. You might be surprised how much adventure is trapped in these locations.
10 Incredible Honeymoon Destinations in Northern Nigeria
1. Yankari National Park
Also called Yankari Game Reserve, this stunning wildlife park is an intersection point for people to see wildlife in its habitat and all its glory. This savannah makes it the perfect place to enjoy all that nature has to offer.
A large, warm spring with clear water flows into the Gaji River. Sandstone caves from early human settlements to explore and of course, the marveling presence of hippos, monkeys, over 300 species of birds, and a host of other animals.
The park also boasts suitable accommodation for groups, individuals or families. Services such as safaris, museums, restaurants, and bars are sure to keep guests entertained during their stay making it one of the best Honeymoon destinations in northern Nigeria.
Photo Credit: Wiki warm springs
Location: Bauchi State. Attractions: Wikki warm springs, Safari ride, museum Accommodation: Available on park grounds
There’s a place to visit when you need something out of the ordinary. Somewhere that’s as breathtaking as it is formidable, courtesy of nature. The Shere Hills rock formation at Jos is a collection of massive rock piles that splatter across the landscape for miles.
The real thrill of these rocks is in climbing to the highest formation: Gog and Magog. It’s a whopping 1829 meters above sea level. Not to worry, you don’t have to carry out this expedition on your own.
The Mountain School of Citizenship and Leadership training (Man ‘O’ War Bay) is facilitated to provide training and supervision of this kind.
Location: Jos city, Plateau State. Attractions: Gog and Magog formation Accommodation: Available (surrounding hotels and Man ‘O’ War grounds)
3. Jos Wildlife Park
One of the country’s largest wildlife conservations, the popular Jos Wildlife Park is home to lions, giraffes, reptiles, and birds. It’s all of nature’s goodness in a confined environment for you to enjoy.
The gate fee is affordable and you’re sure to have an amazing time there and is sure one of the best honeymoon destinations in northern Nigeria out there.
A review of Wildlife Park would help educate you more.
Location: Jos – Miango Road, Plateau State. Attractions: Exotic collection of wild animals Accommodation: Available (surrounding hotels)
4. Mambilla Plateau
Breathtaking. That’s nothing short of the view of the Mambilla Plateau. An extensive landscape of flora and fauna covers the hills. The mountain chain, the simple green scenery, and the stunning waterfall are the main tourist attractions on the plateau.
Then there’s the historic site of Ndumyaji Cave, Mbamnga’s most famous cave. It boasts one of the best weather conditions in the country, which is cool and pleasant all year, in contrast to other sections of the country, which have temperature extremes during the day and night.
This fact alone makes Mambilla Plateau one of the most exquisite and perfect honeymoon destinations in northern Nigeria.
Location: Taraba State. Attractions: Mountain, Waterfall Accommodation: Available (surrounding hotels)
5. Kajuru Castle
Be royalty for a day, a weekend, or however long you choose and Kajuru Castle is there to provide the treatment you deserve. This destination offersthe full feeling of a medieval castle infused with modern-day luxuries and the privacy to enjoy it all as a couple, group, or individual. You get to be the master of the castle and its sauna, swimming pool, towers, and everything else. One thing not to miss out on is a hike in the morning to bask in the sunrise.
Most importantly, don’t forget your camera because this is one of the most romantic spots for honeymoon destinations in northern Nigeria.
This review is all you need to know about Kajuru Castle.
Location: Kaduna State.
Attractions: Medieval styled castle with relaxation and food
Accommodation: Available (in the castle or surrounding hotels)
6. Ancient Nok Settlement
Encased by awe-striking mountains is the small village home to one of Nigeria’s most famous and historical carvings: The Nok terracotta carvings. To preserve this culture and history, several museums have been built around and in the village.
These museums are opened to the public to see the remains of the once-buried village. Logically, people want to visit the community known for its vast amounts of ginger plantations and stunning views of the mountains.
Location: Jaba LG, southern Kaduna State. Attractions: Nok terracotta village, museums Accommodation: Available (surrounding hotels)
7. Matsirga Falls
If you are in Kaduna state or just passing by to your destination, you must see the electrifying site of the Matsirga waterfalls. Impossible to miss, this riveting sight is visible and audible from the Kafanchan – Kaduna road. It is an entire scene of beauty with sparkling clear water, falling from a 30-meter high rock into a pool that streams downward.
If you’re in luck, you might even catch a view backed up with a rainbow as is reported to be seen on some days.
Location: Kafanchan, Jema’a LG, Kaduna State. Attractions: Mystic waterfall Accommodation: Hotels in the neighbouring city or village
8. Gashka-Gumti National Park
The only thing better than one national park is two. That’s what the Gashka-Gumti national park is. A merging of the wonder of Gashaka Game Reserve and the beauty of Gumti game reserve.
A mixture of grasslands and vast mountains and rainforests make up this national treasure. Lush forests, broad sweeping grasslands, cold highland plateaus, steep melancholy mountains, plentiful wildlife, and diverse ethnic cultures can all be found within the park’s boundaries.
There are so many activities to enjoy on a trip like this. They include horse riding, visiting lakes, forests, hippo pools, hot springs, and more. This is a perfect honeymoon destination in northern Nigeria if you ask me.
Gashka-Gumti National Park’s complete guide is available.
Location: North-east of the international Cameroon border and North of the Mambilla plateau Attractions: Horse riding, Hippo pools, Fishing, Mountains, Rivers Accommodation: Available at tourist camp at Serti
9. Gurara Falls
This famous tourist site just 3 hours from the country’s capital lives up to its reputation of being astonishing. It is so accessible and allows for great activities like picnics and barbecues at the sandy shore.
Sunbathing at the rocky foot of the waterfall is a must. Feel the sun on your skin, hear the water thunder around you and revel in nature at its best. In the early hours of the morning, it is possible to see fishermen at work and possibly experience fishing for yourself.
Location: Minna-Abuja expressway Attractions: Waterfall, picnic, and barbecue on a shore Accommodation: Hotels in the neighboring city
10. The Capital City Experience
The capital city of Abuja is packed full of exciting areas for sightseeing and entertaining experiences. These spots cater to different activities that will keep you excited throughout your stay, making it the ultimate choice among the honeymoon destinations in northern Nigeria.
i.Jabi Arts & Crafts Market
Lovers of art will find this place a haven. One can buy different beautifully handcrafted items for gifts here and enjoy the amazing craftsmanship of the locals.
Location: Jabi Lake off the ring road, near Life Camp Attractions: handcrafted items and gifts Accommodation: Hotels in the city
ii.Almat Farms
With the integration of agriculture, hospitality, and lifestyle, this resort is a getaway destination from the noise of the city. Exposing you to scenery sponsored by agriculture, the farm provides gallant horses for horse riding, quad bike riding, board games, picnics, sporting activities, kayaking, and more.
Location: Kuje Area Council Attractions: kayaking, board games, animal pet farm, horse riding Accommodation: Available on farm grounds
iii.Magic Land Amusement Park
Abuja’s number one amusement park has something for everyone. from crazy rides to indoor games and spots to eat and relax, you don’t want to miss out on the experience.
Attractions: Rollercoasters, water splash, flying tower, bumper cars
Accommodation: Hotels in the city
Conclusion
Honeymoon destinations in Northern Nigeria are available in abundance. You just need to explore and enjoy all that they have to offer.
Have you enjoyed any vacations in the north before? Kindly tell us your experience in the comments.
FAQs
What is the most visited travel destination in northern Nigeria?
Yankari Game Reserve is easily the most popular and most visited travel destination in northern Nigeria.
Where can I find accommodation at a tourist site?
Most sites have accommodations available for guests on or near the site. For those that don’t have, hotels and guest inns are usually available a short distance from the site.
I’ve never been to a destination before, how do I find my way around?
Tourist sites usually have service centres that provide guides for your trip. These guides know the history and terrain of the entire location and its environs. They will lead you through every spot or location and answer any questions you have on the way. You can make bookings for a guide before you arrive.
What is the most romantic honeymoon destinations in northern Nigeria?
The exclusivity and enchantment make the Kajuru Castle arguably one of the most romantic honeymoon spots in northern Nigeria. Although this is up for debate because of personal preferences.
I’m on a budget, can I still have a destination honeymoon in the north?
Yes of course. All destinations permit you to stay only as long as you want to and usually have affordable fees for touring and sometimes accommodation. You are sure to find something that suits your budget.
