The Fulani Jihad and its Implication for National Integration and Development in Nigeria

Abstract

The Fulani Jihad (18041810) led by Shehu, Uthman Dan Fodio was successfully prosecuted against the established Hausa dynasty in Northern Nigeria. It led to the emergence of a theocratic state, the Sokoto Caliphate, which was administered largely as a federation, due to its wide expanse and diverse composition of its people. The causes, management and impact of the Jihad as well as important lessons for national integration and development in contemporary Nigerian political life form the basic themes of this paper.