Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has congratulated Hausa people in Nigeria, Africa and across the world on the 2026 International Hausa Day, describing the Hausa language and culture as important pillars of African identity, unity and development.
The Governor’s Spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, said in a statement on Wednesday that the 2026 celebration, themed “Our Culture, Our Future,” provides an opportunity for Hausa people and other Africans to reflect on the need to preserve their language, culture, history and traditions for future generations.
Yusuf noted that International Hausa Day, initiated in 2015 by journalist Abdulbaki Jari and his social media associates, has grown into a global platform for promoting the Hausa language and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Hausa people.
He commended the organisers for selecting Daura, described as the cradle of Hausa civilisation, as the centre of this year’s celebration, where a colourful Durbar would showcase the richness, history and traditions of Hausa culture.
The governor also welcomed the participation of Hausa communities in the diaspora, who would celebrate the day in about 30 countries, including the United States, Türkiye, Indonesia, Egypt, Senegal, Ghana, Togo and South Sudan.
He said Hausa has remained an important lingua franca in West Africa, playing significant roles in promoting peace, governance, commerce, education and social interaction across communities and countries.
Yusuf urged Hausa people, particularly young people, to take pride in their language, culture and history, while embracing modern technology and education to promote Hausa globally.
He stressed that preserving indigenous languages and cultures is essential to strengthening African identity, unity and cooperation.
The governor commended international media platforms that broadcast in Hausa, including BBC Hausa Service, RFI International, DW Hausa, Radio Iran and TRT Hausa, for their efforts in promoting the language.
He also called for greater intra-African cooperation, mutual understanding and peaceful coexistence, saying cultural diversity should be used as a bridge for bringing Africans closer together.
Yusuf prayed for lasting peace and harmony in Northern Nigeria, Nigeria and Africa, and wished participants at the International Hausa Day celebrations a successful and memorable event.