The Vice-Chancellor of Federal University Dutsin-Ma, Professor Mohammed Khalid Othman, on behalf of the entire university community, has formally invited members of the public, academics, students, and stakeholders to attend the 13th Inaugural Lecture of the institution.
Inaugural lectures are an important academic tradition in universities. They provide an opportunity for newly promoted professors to present their research contributions, scholarly journey, and academic insights to the university community and the wider public. This lecture will highlight significant cultural and scholarly perspectives within the field of Hausa studies.
The lecture will be delivered by Professor Bashir Aliyu Sallau, widely known as Sarkin Askar Yariman Katsina. He is a Professor of Hausa Cultural Studies in the Department of Hausa, Faculty of Arts at Federal University Dutsin-Ma.
Professor Sallau is a respected scholar with extensive academic experience in Hausa culture and traditions. Over the years, he has contributed significantly to research and scholarship related to Hausa cultural heritage. He holds several academic qualifications, including TC II, NCE, B.A. Ed., M.A., and Ph.D. in Hausa Culture obtained from Bayero University Kano.
Through his academic career, Professor Sallau has dedicated his research efforts to the study of traditional institutions, indigenous knowledge systems, and cultural practices within Hausa society. His research continues to contribute to preserving and documenting cultural traditions that form an essential part of northern Nigeria’s heritage.
Lecture Topic
“The Art of Hausa Traditional Barbering (Wanzanci) in Relation to Islamic Religion: Modernization and Challenges of the 21st Century in Hausaland.”
The lecture will focus on the historical, cultural, and religious significance of traditional barbering, known locally as Wanzanci, within Hausa communities. Traditionally, barbering in Hausa society extends beyond simple hair cutting. It involves a wide range of cultural roles including participation in traditional ceremonies, social rites, and certain community responsibilities.
Professor Sallau will explore how the practice of Wanzanci has historically been linked with Islamic religious practices and community customs across Hausaland. The lecture will also examine how modernization, technological development, urbanization, and changing social values are gradually transforming this traditional occupation.
In addition, the presentation will analyze the current challenges facing traditional barbers in contemporary society. Issues such as the influence of modern salons, shifting cultural values, and reduced interest among younger generations will be discussed as part of the broader challenges affecting the sustainability of this cultural practice.
The lecture is expected to provide deep academic insights into how traditional occupations interact with religion, culture, and modern societal developments. It will also contribute to ongoing discussions about preserving indigenous knowledge systems in the face of modernization.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday, 31st March, 2026
Time: 2:00 PM
Venue: Prof. Lawal Abdu Sa'adawa Auditorium, Take-Off Campus, Federal University Dutsin-Ma
The event will be chaired by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Mohammed Khalid Othman, who will lead other members of the university management, academic staff, students, and invited guests in witnessing the academic presentation.
The university encourages members of the academic community, researchers, students, and the general public to attend the lecture, as it promises to be an enlightening intellectual engagement that highlights the relevance of cultural studies in contemporary scholarship.
Inaugural lectures at universities serve not only as a celebration of scholarly achievements but also as a platform for knowledge dissemination and intellectual dialogue. The management of the university therefore looks forward to welcoming distinguished guests, academics, and members of the public to participate in this significant academic event.
Announcer
Professor Mohammed Umar Sanda
Chairman, Professorial Inaugural Lectures Committee
Federal University Dutsin-Ma