By Ali Rabiu Ali, Dutse
The ancient city of Hadejia is set to host a landmark commemoration marking 120 years of its historic resistance against British colonial forces, with stakeholders emphasizing the need to preserve culture and history for future generations.
Speaking at a press briefing, the Chairman of the Main Planning Committee, Alhaji Usman Abdul Aziz Galadima of Hadejia, described the event as a moment of deep historical reflection and pride for the people of the emirate.
He said the commemoration, hosted by the Emir of Hadejia, Alhaji Dr. Adamu Abubakar Maje Haruna, will honour the bravery of the people who resisted colonial domination in 1906.
Galadima explained that Hadejia stood firm under the leadership of Emir Muhammadu Mai-Shahada, refusing to submit to British forces.
According to him, the battle was fierce, leading to the death of over 800 Hadejia warriors, including the Emir himself, while the British commander, Captain H.C.B. Phillips, was also killed in the confrontation.
“This was not just a battle, but a defining moment of courage, sacrifice, and honour that continues to shape our identity,” he said.
The two-day event, scheduled for April 24 and 25, 2026, will feature prayers for fallen heroes, commissioning of a historical museum, visits to key sites, and a grand Durbar celebration.
A major highlight will be the launch of a landmark publication documenting the history of the resistance, compiled by the late Professor Haruna Wakili and to be reviewed by Professor Tijjani Mohammed Naniya.
Government Commends Cultural Efforts
In his remarks, the Governor of Jigawa State, Malam Umar Namadi, represented by the Commissioner for Information, Youth, Sports and Culture, Hon. Sagir Ahmad Musa, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to cultural preservation.
“I would like to confidently say that the government of His Excellency Malam Umar Namadi is doing well in terms of cultural preservation,” he stated.
He revealed that the State Executive Council had approved over one billion naira for the reconstruction of the Hadejia Emirate Council, describing it as a major step toward preserving heritage.
“This 120-year commemoration is a collaboration between the emirate and the state, demonstrating the government’s recognition of the importance of historical documentation and cultural preservation,” he added.
Reflecting on the historical significance, the commissioner noted that Hadejia remained one of the last emirates to resist British occupation in Northern Nigeria.
He recalled that many major emirates, including the Sokoto Caliphate, fell to British forces around 1903, but Hadejia resisted for several years before the decisive battle.
Describing the commemoration as monumental, he said it offers an opportunity for reflection and learning.
“This is a very important occasion that requires us to reflect and draw lessons from history,” he said.
Organisers have called on the media and the general public to actively participate in the event, which is themed:
“Hadejia Resistance: Defending Islam, Preserving Honour, Heritage, and Inspiring the Future.”
The event is expected to attract historians, traditional leaders, government officials, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond.
