The Hausa Bakwai: History of the Seven Original Hausa States & Their Legacy
By: Chimdindu Ken-Anaukwu
The history of the Hausa Bakwai (Seven Hausa States) is one of legend, courage, trade, politics, and cultural brilliance. These ancient kingdoms shaped Hausa identity and became the backbone of Hausa civilization across West Africa.
Today, we’ll explore their origins, the Bayajidda legend, and how these seven states grew into powerful centers of commerce, scholarship, craftsmanship, and military strength. And yes, expect plenty of humor along the way. History does not have to be boring.
🏛️ Who Are the Hausa Bakwai?
The Hausa Bakwai, meaning Seven True Hausa States, refers to the original kingdoms believed to be founded by the sons of the legendary prince Bayajidda. These states form the cultural and historical core of the Hausa people:
Daura
Kano
Katsina
Zazzau (Zaria)
Gobir
Rano
Biram
Together, they shaped the history of the Hausa people, influencing trade, religion, politics, and cultural traditions.
🐍 The Bayajidda Legend: Birth of the Seven Hausa States
Every great civilization has a dramatic origin story. For the Hausa, it is the tale of Bayajidda, a wandering hero who arrived in Daura, where a giant snake guarded the only well.
Bayajidda said, “No wahala,” drew his sword, and removed the snake like a bad WhatsApp contact.
The people rejoiced, Queen Daurama married him, and from their lineage (plus a mysterious second wife, because African history loves plot twists), came the founders of the Seven Original Hausa States.
This legend remains central to Hausa identity and oral tradition.
🏙️ Overview of the Seven Hausa Kingdoms
Below is a breakdown of each of the Hausa Bakwai and what made them unique.
1. Daura – The Oldest Hausa Kingdom
Daura is considered the birthplace of Hausa civilization. Key cultural features include:
Strong matriarchal traditions
The home of Queen Daurama
Early political and social organization
Festivals celebrating Hausa heritage
If Hausa history had a womb, it would be Daura.
2. Kano – Center of Commerce and Industry
Kano grew into a powerful economic empire, famous for:
Trans-Saharan trade
Indigo dye pits
Leatherwork
A booming market economy
Think ancient Dubai, but with more turbans and louder bargaining.
3. Katsina – Seat of Learning and Scholarship
Katsina became the intellectual headquarters of Hausaland. It is renowned for:
Islamic scholarship
The historic Gobarau Minaret
Attracting scholars from across West Africa and beyond
If Harvard wore baban riga, it would be Katsina.
4. Zazzau (Zaria) – Land of Queen Amina
Zaria is legendary for Queen Amina, the warrior queen who expanded Hausa territory and built defensive walls. Her achievements include:
Military conquests
Trade expansion
Political reforms
Queen Amina woke up every day and chose, "I run this land."
5. Gobir – The Warrior State
Gobir was known for its fierce military culture. Its warriors were central to:
Regional defense
Military innovation
Events leading to the Sokoto Jihad
If you meet someone from Gobir, shake their hand firmly; they come from warrior blood.
6. Rano – Textile and Craft Center
Rano specialized in:
Weaving
Dyeing
Craftsmanship
They turned thread into wealth long before fashion designers became influencers.
7. Biram – The Quiet but Culturally Significant State
Biram may not have been the loudest politically, but historically it is essential for:
Completing the Hausa Bakwai lineage
Preserving ancient traditions
Maintaining cultural continuity
Every friend group has a quiet one watching everything. That’s Biram.
🛍️ United Through Trade and Culture
Despite different strengths, all seven states shared:
Hausa language
Islamic faith
Trade networks
Cultural traditions, including storytelling, music, and crafts
Together, they formed a unified cultural powerhouse.
🕌 The Sokoto Caliphate and Transformation of the States
In the 1800s, Usman dan Fodio’s Jihad movement reshaped the Hausa region, converting many of the original kingdoms into emirates under the Sokoto Caliphate.
This didn’t erase the Hausa Bakwai, it strengthened Hausa political structure and expanded cultural influence.
〽️ Why the Hausa Bakwai Still Matter Today
The Seven Hausa States remain important because they:
Define Hausa heritage
Shape Northern Nigerian political boundaries
Preserve cultural practices like Durbar festivals
Influence language, trade, and arts across West Africa
To understand Hausa culture, you must understand the Hausa Bakwai.
❓ FAQs About the Hausa Bakwai
1. What does Hausa Bakwai mean?
It means “Seven Hausa States”, referring to the original core Hausa kingdoms.
2. Who founded the Seven Hausa States?
They are traditionally believed to be founded by the sons of Bayajidda, a legendary hero.
3. Which is the oldest Hausa kingdom?
Daura is regarded as the earliest and oldest Hausa state.
4. What role did the Hausa Bakwai play in West African history?
They were central to regional trade, Islamic scholarship, governance, textiles, and diplomacy.
5. How did the Sokoto Caliphate affect the Hausa states?
It reorganized them into emirates and unified the region under Islamic governance.
🌟 Final Thoughts
The Hausa Bakwai are more than a historical list; they are the foundation of Hausa civilization, representing courage, innovation, political structure, and cultural depth.
Understanding them is essential for anyone exploring Hausa history, culture, language, or identity.
Sai anjima — until next time!