Adamu Gwarzo, a professor and founder of the Maryam Abacha American University of Nigeria Group, has been named Chancellor of the Hausa Community in Europe.
The announcement was made by Sarkin Hausawan Turai, Surajo Jankado, during the 2026 International Hausa Day celebration in Paris, France, on Sunday.
International Hausa Day takes place every year on 26 August. It brings together Hausa-speaking people and those who love the culture worldwide to promote the Hausa language, culture, history, and identity.
The recognition received praise from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf. They commended Gwarzo for his efforts in promoting the Hausa language, culture, and community development.
Atiku, who is the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), called the appointment a “well-deserved honour.”
“I congratulate my friend and brother, Professor Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo, on his appointment as Chancellor of the Hausa Community in Europe,” Atiku said.
He added that the recognition shows Gwarzo’s long-time dedication to promoting the Hausa language, culture, and identity. It also highlights his support for Hausa communities both in Nigeria and abroad.
“Recognition of this kind does not come by accident; it comes to those who serve quietly and consistently,” he noted.
Governor Abba Yusuf also congratulated Gwarzo and other Nigerians who were recognized at the Paris event.
The governor has always pushed for the preservation and global promotion of the Hausa language and culture.
In August, Yusuf called the Hausa language and culture important parts of African identity, unity, and development during the 2026 International Hausa Day celebrations.
This year’s theme, “Our Culture, Our Future,” focused on keeping the Hausa language, history, traditions, and cultural identity alive for future generations.
Gwarzo has built a strong public image mainly around higher education, institution-building, and philanthropy.
Through the Adamu Abubakar Gwarzo Foundation, he has supported scholarships and other educational and community development projects.
In 2024, he gave $100,000 to the Islamic University in Uganda during its 33rd convocation and was later recognized for his contribution to the school’s development.
His new role adds a cultural and community aspect to his work. It may put him at the heart of efforts to strengthen the identity of Hausa communities in Europe and deepen connections with Hausa-speaking communities in Nigeria and beyond.
International Hausa Day started in 2015 by Nigerian journalist Abdulbaki Aliyu Jari. It began as a social media campaign to promote the language and has grown into a global cultural platform.
Organizers reported that over 30 countries took part in the 2026 celebration, up from 26 countries the year before.
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