BRYMO'S TAKE

You can access Professor Bako’s lecture here and Professor Odinkalu’s critique here.

Understanding the historical context of a place and its people is crucial in appreciating the complexities of intergroup relations. Kano, the capital city of Kano State in northern Nigeria, is one of the most important commercial and industrial centers in the country. Historically, Kano has been a key hub in trans-Saharan trade, especially during the medieval period when it was part of the Hausa city-states. The city is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, particularly in craftsmanship, textile production, and leatherwork, which still thrive today. With landmarks like the ancient city walls, the Emir’s palace, and the bustling Kurmi Market—one of the largest in West Africa—Kano reflects a blend of traditional Hausa styles and Islamic influences.

The Igbo people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, primarily located in the southeastern part of the country. Known for their rich culture, enterprising spirit, and emphasis on education, the Igbo have significantly contributed to Nigeria’s social, economic, and political life. Due to their entrepreneurial nature, many Igbo have migrated to other parts of Nigeria and the world, establishing businesses and engaging in commerce. Their adaptability and resilience have made them key players in various industries, including trade, transportation, and manufacturing.

With this backdrop, Professor Ahmed Bako’s inaugural lecture, titled “The Igbo Factor in the History of Intergroup Relations and Commerce in Kano: Opportunities and Challenges Revisited,” delves deep into the historical intricacies of the relationship between the Igbo community and Kano. While the lecture has faced some criticisms, particularly from notable figures like Prof. Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, there are significant positive takeaways that we can learn from.

One of the standout aspects of Professor Bako’s lecture is the emphasis on the significant economic role that the Igbo community has played in Kano. The Igbo, known for their entrepreneurial spirit, have been instrumental in establishing businesses across various sectors, including commerce, transportation, and industry.

From the early 20th century to post-civil war Nigeria, Igbo businesses flourished in Kano, providing jobs, creating wealth, and contributing to the economic growth of the city. The lecture highlights how the Igbo, despite facing discrimination and numerous challenges, became key players in Kano’s commercial landscape. This teaches us an important lesson about the potential of migrant communities to positively influence the economy and culture of their host regions.

The lecture underscores how the intergroup relations between the Igbo and the indigenous people of Kano have resulted in mutual benefits over the decades. Despite differences in language, culture, and customs, the Igbo and Kano natives found common ground in commerce. This interaction fostered a unique form of cooperation that allowed both communities to thrive.

This cross-cultural integration is an important lesson for modern Nigeria and indeed the world. Diversity, when embraced, can become a powerful driver of social and economic growth. The history of the Igbo in Kano serves as an example of how communities can work together, leverage each other’s strengths, and create opportunities that benefit everyone.

The Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970) was a devastating period for the Igbo community across Nigeria, including those in Kano. Many Igbo people were forced to abandon their businesses and properties, fleeing to the east for safety. However, the lecture highlights the remarkable resilience of the Igbo community, many of whom returned to Kano after the war, re-established their businesses, and continued to contribute to the city’s economic development.

This resilience is a powerful reminder that even in the face of adversity, communities can rebuild and thrive. The ability of the Igbo people to return to Kano, reclaim their lives, and continue contributing to the local economy is a testament to the strength of human spirit and determination.

One of the most inspiring aspects of Professor Bako’s lecture is the emphasis placed on the Igbo community’s dedication to education. The Igbo have historically placed great importance on education as a means of upward mobility and empowerment. This emphasis on knowledge enabled the Igbo to secure important roles in Kano’s public and private sectors, including clerical, technical, and administrative positions.

The Igbo State Union, a critical institution for the Igbo community in Kano, even established schools to ensure that future generations had access to quality education. This dedication to education speaks volumes about the Igbo’s long-term vision and their understanding of its importance in achieving success.

The lesson here is clear: education is a powerful tool for individual and community empowerment. By investing in education, the Igbo community ensured their resilience, adaptability, and continued relevance in Kano’s socio-economic landscape.

Another key takeaway from the lecture is how both the Igbo and Kano’s indigenous entrepreneurs navigated challenges and turned them into opportunities. During the Nigerian Civil War, when Igbo businesses were forced to shut down or were abandoned, indigenous merchants in Kano took over many of these businesses. This created opportunities for local entrepreneurs to establish themselves and grow their ventures.

This is a critical lesson on adaptability and seizing opportunities, even in times of crisis. It also reminds us of the importance of a balanced perspective. While the Igbo community faced significant losses during the war, Kano’s indigenous entrepreneurs used this period to diversify their ventures, which contributed to Kano’s economic recovery.

Ultimately, Professor Bako’s lecture serves as a reminder of the power of cooperation between communities. The Igbo and Kano natives, despite cultural differences and historical challenges, found ways to coexist and thrive together. This is a model for the rest of Nigeria and indeed the world. In an increasingly globalized society, where people of different ethnicities and backgrounds are constantly interacting, the history of the Igbo in Kano shows us how economic cooperation and cultural tolerance can pave the way for collective progress.

Professor Ahmed Bako’s lecture may have sparked some controversy, but it also offers invaluable lessons for understanding the dynamics of intergroup relations. The Igbo community’s contributions to Kano’s commerce, their resilience, and their emphasis on education are all important takeaways that can inform contemporary discussions on diversity, inclusion, and economic development.

The history of the Igbo in Kano is a story of cooperation, entrepreneurship, and determination. It is a testament to the power of integration, tolerance, and the human spirit’s ability to overcome challenges. As we move forward, let this history remind us that our differences, when embraced, can be the foundation for shared success.