Govs of Sokoto, Kebbi, Zamfara Raise N110m as Yari, Matawalle Donate N200m at Argungu Book Launch
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State has led a joint donation of N110 million by leaders of Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara States in honour of late scholar, Muhammad Bello Alkali.
The gesture was announced on Saturday in Argungu during the public presentation of Alkali’s book titled “A Kingdom in Crisis: KABI in the 19th Century.
Speaking at the event, Governor Idris described the late author as a patriotic scholar whose intellectual contributions would continue to deepen understanding of Kabi’s history and identity.
He noted that although Alkali did not live to witness the unveiling of his work, dedicated individuals ensured its completion and publication.
The governor commended the Emir of Argungu, Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, for hosting the event, and praised Abdulaziz Abubakar Yari for spearheading the book launch and mobilising support.
Idris highlighted the strong historical, cultural and religious ties binding Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara States, stressing that such bonds transcend modern political boundaries.
He disclosed that Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, and Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, each donated N30 million for 10 copies of the book, despite being absent due to official engagements.
Kebbi State Government also purchased 30 copies for N40 million, bringing the initial total to N100 million.
An additional N10 million donation was made on behalf of former Kebbi governor and Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, raising the total contribution to N110 million.
In his remarks, the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Umar Abubakar Tafida, pledged to translate the book into Hausa to make it accessible to a wider audience.
Earlier, the Emir of Argungu said the event was not just a book launch but a celebration of shared history among Kebbi, Sokoto, Zamfara and parts of Niger Republic.
The chief launcher, Senator Yari, emphasised the importance of preserving indigenous history and language, warning against the erosion of cultural identity.
He announced the purchase of 150 copies worth N150 million, while the Minister of State for Defence acquired 100 copies at N50 million. Other dignitaries also made contributions.
The book, originally a Master’s thesis submitted in 1969 at Ahmadu Bello University, has now been published under the Arewa House Studies Series and was reviewed at the event by Professor Alkasum Abba.
