Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has called for stronger efforts to preserve and promote the Hausa language and cultural heritage, describing them as critical instruments for strengthening African identity, unity and development.
Yusuf made the call in a statement issued on Wednesday by Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, his Spokesman, to mark the 2026 International Hausa Day, themed “Our Culture, Our Future.”
The governor said the annual celebration provides an opportunity for Hausa communities and other Africans to reflect on the importance of preserving indigenous languages, history, traditions and cultural values for future generations.
He said Hausa had evolved beyond its traditional ethnic boundaries to become an important lingua franca across West Africa, supporting commerce, education, governance, peacebuilding and social interaction among communities and countries.
According to Yusuf, the continued relevance of the language makes its preservation a collective responsibility, particularly at a time when technological and social changes are rapidly reshaping cultural identities.
He urged young Hausa people to take greater interest in their language, history and traditions while using modern education and digital technology to expand the global reach of Hausa.
“The preservation of indigenous languages and cultures is essential to strengthening African identity, unity and cooperation,” the governor said.
Yusuf also commended the organisers of International Hausa Day, noting that the initiative, started in 2015 by journalist Abdulbaki Jari and his social media associates, had grown into an international platform for promoting the language and celebrating Hausa cultural heritage.
He welcomed the decision to hold this year’s central celebration in Daura, Katsina State, which he described as the cradle of Hausa civilisation.
The governor said the Durbar planned for the celebration would provide an opportunity to showcase the history, traditions and cultural richness of the Hausa people to an international audience.
He also noted that Hausa communities in the diaspora would participate in the celebration across about 30 countries, including the United States, Türkiye, Indonesia, Egypt, Senegal, Ghana, Togo and South Sudan.
Yusuf further recognised the contribution of international media organisations broadcasting in Hausa, including BBC Hausa Service, RFI, DW Hausa, Radio Iran and TRT Hausa, as well as the former Hausa Service of the Voice of America, to the promotion and wider understanding of the language.
He said sustained media broadcasting in Hausa had helped connect Hausa-speaking communities across geographical boundaries and contributed to the language’s international visibility.
The governor called for greater intra-African cooperation and peaceful coexistence, urging Africans to view cultural diversity as a bridge for deeper understanding rather than a source of division.
He also prayed for lasting peace in Northern Nigeria, the country and the wider African continent, while wishing participants at the International Hausa Day celebrations a successful event.
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