Pomp, Pageantry as Maiwada is Turbaned Dan Amana
Francis Sardauna in Katsina
The historic and ancient city of Katsina, the Katsina State capital was a beehive of activities as notable dignitaries besieged the town for the turbaning ceremony of Dr. Haruna Umar Maiwada as Dan Amanan Katsina by the Emir of Katsina, Dr. Abdulmumini Kabir Usman.
The prestigious traditional title of Dan Amana, in Hausa dialect, is used in reference to someone that is trustworthy, noble character and courage, a confidant and one whose words can be relied upon.
Maiwada’s development strides in health, education, empowerment, road, water supply and his holistic approach to selfless community services, prompted the Katsina Emir to bestow on him the revered chieftaincy title of Dan Amana.
Reputable tradition and religious leaders as well as the who is who in the nation’s political tableau, diplomats and captains of industry were part of the galaxy of the dignitaries and guests at the regal event.
Colours of pomp and pageantry were highlighted further by the Durbar of Horse Riders in majestic attires of turbans and flowing gowns. The coterie of traditional musicians and the throngs of praise singers also graced the rare occasion.
At the crème de la crème gathering, Emir Usman urged the new Dan Amanan Katsina to reciprocate the gesture by sustaining his philanthropic services to communities and cities in the state.
He said the revered title of Dan Amana has not been conferred on anyone for a long time in the emirate. This, he said, was due to the significance of the title and the burdens attached thereto.
The emir said, “When you talk of trust, you know it is a great burden; therefore, Dan Amana is given to only persons proven to be trustworthy. It is not as if we don’t have trustworthy people to confer the title on here, but Maiwada has not only proven to be a trustworthy person but also is committed to the development of the emirate.”
He added that the emirate council has found Maiwada well-deserving of the title because of his outstanding performance in the critical sectors of health, education, empowerment and potable water supply to communities.
Speaking at a grand reception in his honour, Maiwada promised to continue to contribute his quota to the development of Katsina state, particularly rural communities, for growth and development to thrive.
“I am very excited today to be bestowed with the title of Dan Amanan Katsina. The most interesting thing about it is that I am the first Dan Amanan Katsina and this is a milestone for me and my family,” he said.
Born into the respected and humble family of late Alhaji Ummaru Suleiman Maiwada, the first Dan Amanan Katsina began his basic education at the Katsina Capital School and completed at LEA Primary School, Abuja.
