Thesis Abstract

The Birnin Tudu settlement, located in northern Nigeria, has a rich history that dates back centuries. This research project delves into the origin and development of Birnin Tudu, shedding light on the factors that have shaped its growth and transformation over time. The study employs a multidisciplinary approach, drawing on historical records, archaeological findings, and anthropological research to piece together the story of Birnin Tudu. Through a comprehensive analysis of these sources, the research uncovers the early foundations of the settlement and examines the socio-cultural dynamics that influenced its evolution. One key aspect that emerges from the research is the strategic location of Birnin Tudu, which played a crucial role in its establishment and growth. Situated at a crossroads of trade routes, the settlement served as a hub for commercial activities, attracting merchants, travelers, and settlers from diverse backgrounds. This influx of people contributed to the cultural diversity of Birnin Tudu and laid the foundation for its cosmopolitan character. Furthermore, the study explores the architectural development of Birnin Tudu, tracing the evolution of its urban layout and infrastructure. Through an analysis of building styles, materials, and spatial organization, the research uncovers the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the early inhabitants in constructing their homes, markets, and public spaces. Moreover, the research sheds light on the social structure of Birnin Tudu, highlighting the role of kinship ties, religious beliefs, and political institutions in shaping community life. By examining historical records and oral traditions, the study reveals the intricate networks of power and authority that governed the settlement and mediated social interactions. In addition, the research investigates the economic life of Birnin Tudu, exploring the agricultural practices, craft industries, and trade networks that sustained the local economy. By analyzing artifacts, tools, and other material remains, the study provides insights into the economic activities of the settlement and its integration into regional and trans-Saharan trade networks. Overall, this research project offers a comprehensive overview of the origin and development of Birnin Tudu, highlighting the complex interplay of geographical, cultural, economic, and social factors that have shaped the history of the settlement. By illuminating the past of Birnin Tudu, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of the dynamics of urbanization and cultural change in northern Nigeria.

Thesis Overview

1.1 Introduction

Brinin Tudu village is a rural settlement presently under Gummi local government area in Zamfara state. It is about Twenty One (21) kilometers away from Gummi town. Gummi town is located along latitude (Lat, 12o06N). the village is surrounded by a number of settlement that included Daki-Takwas, kwamma, Nasarawa Kifi, Falale, Birnin Magaji, Iyaka, kaiwa and Zauma all in the Gummi local government, with the exception Zauma which is in Bukkuyum local government of Zamfara state. It is bordered in the east by Zauma, in the South by Daki-Takwas, in the North by Birnin Magaji, while it share border in the West with Iyaka. Birnin Tudu is headed by a village head with the title of “Sarkin Zauma”.

A visual observation of the settlement will reveal series of houses built with different type of materials. The predominant building type I the mud building along traditional line. Other forms of building include those of cement blocks, rooted with corrugated iron; also some houses are made up with either clay or sticks.

Birnin Tudu settlement was said to have been founded by a group of Zamfara hunters (who came in 1524) from “TUNFAF” village in present day Talata Mafara local government area in Zamfara state. Some of the paramount leaders of the group include Dankofo, Dansumba and Bamurna. The Name of the settlement was derived from the location of the area, because it’s situated in the higher land, which in Hausa language is regard to As “Tudu.”

Birnin Tudu settlement envelops both Agriculturalist and pastoralist, other economic activities that are practiced in the area also included Blacksmithing,, Bricklaying, Barbing and leather work. The predominant economic activity of the women members of the society included weaving (Saka) and spinning (Zare).

1.2 Statement Of Problem

In spite of the longs existing History of Birnin-Tudu, dating back to 16th C. a historical accounts of the area is yet to be written. This could be attributed to the absence of written document, which some writers consider as the only reliable materials for sourcing History.

However, there are several Historical researches on the villages/settlements surrounding the areas of study, such as Daki-takwas, Zauma, Gummi, Nasarawar kifi, Zugu among others. It is in an effort to fill in this Lacuna in the socio-economic and political History of the area that this research set out to document the History of Birinin Tudu.

1.3 Aim And Objectives

The Major aim of this research is to study the Historical origin and development of Birnin Tudu specifically it intend to:

1. Trace the Historical origin of the village.

2. Examine the socio-economic and political development of the village. In essence therefore, this study will provide the researcher and general public alike a modest Historical public alike a modest Historical of Birnin tudu village..