Sultan launches ‘Emirs of Zazzau’ book, urges traditional rulers to write their own history to avoid distortions
By OUR REPORTER, Kaduna
In his remarks, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, said the publication became necessary because of what he described as historical distortions and inaccuracies concerning the history of the emirate.
The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, has urged traditional institutions across Nigeria to take ownership of documenting their histories to prevent distortions and preserve their heritage for future generations.
The Sultan made the call on Wednesday October 7, 2026 in Zaria, Kaduna State, at the presentation of Emirs of Zazzau: A Biographical Study from 1800–2025, organised as part of activities marking the sixth anniversary of the enthronement of the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli.
He commended the Emir for documenting the history of the Zazzau Emirate, describing the initiative as an important step towards preserving the identity, culture and heritage of its people.
According to the Sultan, traditional institutions are best positioned to document their histories accurately because they possess the knowledge and records required to tell their stories.
“You cannot allow someone to write your own history. You have to write your own history as it is because you know more than any other person,” he said.
The Sultan recalled that he had earlier challenged the Emir of Zazzau with his documentation of the history of Sokoto Caliphate, noting that he had published his own book, Sultans of Sokoto, several years ago.
He said the Zazzau history book was particularly significant because historians from the emirate’s four dynasties participated in its production.
The Sultan also challenged other emirates across the country to undertake similar initiatives to ensure that their histories are properly documented for present and future generations.
“We need to know who we are, where we come from and where we are going. We should not allow social media to write whatever they want and try to change the course of history,” he said.
He warned against relying solely on historical accounts written by people unfamiliar with the traditions and history of Nigerian communities, stressing that such narratives could distort the past.
The Sultan further urged Nigerians to continue praying for the country’s leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, emirs and other traditional and political leaders.
He called on citizens to support their leaders and pray for them to succeed, stressing that the success of leaders would ultimately benefit the people they govern.
Speaking at the event, Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Uba Sani, applauded the Emir of Zazzau for the initiative, describing the publication as an important contribution to preserving the history of the emirate.
The governor urged the Emir to remain patient, continue listening to the people and make use of constructive advice in advancing the development of the emirate.
He also expressed appreciation to the Sultan for his continued support for the Zazzau Emirate and for attending the anniversary and book presentation.
In his remarks, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, said the publication became necessary because of what he described as historical distortions and inaccuracies concerning the history of the emirate.
He said communities that failed to document and preserve their histories risked losing their identity, heritage and connection with future generations.
The event was attended by former Vice-President Namadi Sambo, government officials, traditional rulers, scholars, historians, members of the Zazzau Emirate Council and other dignitaries.
