What Are the 7 Original Hausa States?
The Hausa people are one of the largest ethnic groups in West Africa, known for their rich history, culture, and influence across Northern Nigeria and parts of Niger. When discussing Hausa history, one important topic that always comes up is the “7 Original Hausa States”, also known as Hausa Bakwai. These states are considered the foundation of the Hausa civilization, dating back hundreds of years.
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The Meaning of Hausa Bakwai
The term “Hausa Bakwai” literally means Seven Hausa States in the Hausa language. According to Hausa traditions, these seven original states were founded by the descendants of Bayajidda, a legendary hero who came from the East and played a central role in Hausa history and mythology.
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The 7 Original Hausa States
Here are the 7 original Hausa states (Hausa Bakwai) and a brief explanation of each:
1. Daura
Daura is considered the oldest and most important of all Hausa states. It is said to be the hometown of Queen Daurama, who met Bayajidda — the hero who killed the famous snake (Sarki) that prevented people from fetching water. Daura is located in present-day Katsina State and is seen as the birthplace of Hausa civilization.
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2. Kano
Kano grew to become one of the most powerful Hausa city-states. Known for its ancient Kano Wall, trade, and craftsmanship, it was a major center for commerce, learning, and Islamic culture. Today, it remains one of the largest and most influential cities in Northern Nigeria.
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3. Katsina
Katsina was another major Hausa kingdom famous for trade and Islamic scholarship. It became a hub of education and culture, attracting scholars and merchants from across West Africa. The city is still known today for its strong religious and educational heritage.
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4. Zazzau (Zaria)
Zazzau, now called Zaria, was an important Hausa state located in what is now Kaduna State. It was ruled by Queen Amina (Amina of Zazzau), one of the most famous women in African history. She expanded the territory and built walls around Zaria, showing the strength and leadership of Hausa women.
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5. Gobir
Gobir was known as a warrior state among the Hausa Bakwai. It played a significant role in the spread of Islam and was one of the first Hausa states to face the Sokoto Jihad led by Usman dan Fodio in the 19th century. Gobir’s influence can still be felt in parts of present-day Sokoto and Niger Republic.
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6. Rano
Rano was an agricultural and trading center among the Hausa states. It was smaller in size compared to Kano or Katsina but was rich in farmlands and contributed to the economic strength of the Hausa region through trade in grains, leather, and cloth.
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7. Biram (or Hadejia)
Biram, sometimes identified with Hadejia, was one of the less-documented Hausa states but still part of the original seven. It shared cultural and linguistic ties with the other Hausa Bakwai states and contributed to the development of Hausa identity and leadership traditions.
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The Banza Bakwai (The Other Seven States)
Apart from the Hausa Bakwai, history also mentions another group called Banza Bakwai, which means “The Bastard Seven” in Hausa tradition. These were states that shared cultural and linguistic similarities with the Hausa but were not considered part of the original lineage of Bayajidda. They include:
Kebbi
Zamfara
Gwari (Gbagyi)
Nupe
Ilorin
Kwararrafa
Yauri
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Conclusion
So, what are the 7 original Hausa states? They are Daura, Kano, Katsina, Zazzau, Gobir, Rano, and Biram. These states form the foundation of Hausa history, culture, and identity. Their stories continue to shape the heritage of millions of Hausa people across Nigeria, Niger, and beyond. Understanding the Hausa Bakwai is key to appreciating the deep history of one of Africa’s most influential civilizations.
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