Commonwealth Heritage Forum’s Revives Traditional Architecture at Kano’s Gidan Makama Museum

By Henry Ajene Studio Ltd (HASL) The Commonwealth Heritage Forum (CHF) recently concluded a groundbreaking heritage skills training programme at Gidan Makama, one of Kano’s most iconic historic sites. The two-week programme at the end of January this year brought together young architects, artisans, and heritage professionals, focusing on traditional building techniques and conservation methods […]

By Henry Ajene Studio Ltd (HASL)

The Commonwealth Heritage Forum (CHF) recently concluded a groundbreaking heritage skills training programme at Gidan Makama, one of Kano’s most iconic historic sites. The two-week programme at the end of January this year brought together young architects, artisans, and heritage professionals, focusing on traditional building techniques and conservation methods essential to maintaining Kano’s rich earthen architectural heritage. Participants engaged in hands-on workshops and site visits, including the study of Gidan Makama’s earthen architecture, decorative plasterwork, and cultural significance. This initiative not only

preserved vital skills but also fostered a new generation of heritage champions dedicated to protecting Kano’s legacy.

The initiative, delivered by Henry Ajene Studio (HASL) in partnership with the National Commission for Museums and Monuments (NCMM) and the Architecture Department of the Bayero University Kano (BUK), forms part of the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Commonwealth Heritage Skills Training Programme, funded by the Vinehill Trust and commissioned by the Commonwealth Heritage Forum. The programme  brought together young artisans and architecture students, built-environment professionals and traditional artisans for an intensive training focused on conserving northern Nigeria’s distinctive earthen architecture. Participants engaged in practical workshops, site documentation and field visits across Kano’s historic urban fabric.

At the centre of the training was Gidan Makama, one of the oldest surviving structures in Kano and a seat of political authority within the emirate. Constructed in the 15th century, the building exemplifies traditional Hausa architecture, with its earthen walls, layered courtyards and intricate decorative plasterwork reflecting centuries of craftsmanship and environmental adaptation. For participants, the site functioned as a living classroom, offering direct engagement with traditional construction methods that are increasingly at risk of being lost. Working alongside experienced craftsmen, trainees explored techniques including earthen wall repair, traditional plaster application and the documentation of historic fabric.

The programme  responds to growing concern over the decline of heritage skills across the region, where modern construction methods are rapidly replacing traditional practices.

Philip Davies OBE, CEO/ Founder of the Commonwealth Heritage Forum, said:

“This project is one of 70 that we are supporting across the commonwealth and the wider anglosphere through our Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Commonwealth Heritage Skills Training Programme, funded by the Vinehill Trust. It aligns perfectly with our core mission to support communities with heritage skills training in places of real need and where the local built heritage is most at risk.”

Prince Henry Ajene, Director of Henry Ajene Studio Ltd and Project Lead, said:

“Gidan Makama provided an extraordinary setting for learning. It allowed participants to engage directly with the materials, techniques and spatial logic of Hausa architecture. Our aim was not only to conserve a historic structure, but to equip a new generation with the skills and confidence to continue this work across Nigeria and beyond.”

Mrs Rose Madaki, Director of NCMM Northwest and Curator of Gidan Makama, added:

“Kano is at the heart of Hausa culture, and this training is an important step in preserving our traditional architecture. By bringing people together to learn these skills, we are ensuring that this heritage continues to be understood, valued and sustained”

Dr. Salim Bashir Umar, HOD of Architecture, Bayero University Kano, speaking at the closing ceremony, described the initiative as:

“A reflection of BUK’s enduring commitment to impact-driven education, heritage skills preservation, and international academic collaboration. This initiative further strengthens BUK’s reputation as a centre of academic excellence and innovation, advancing its strategic vision of producing globally competitive graduates while contributing meaningfully to cultural sustainability and community development.”

Field visits formed a key component of the programme, with participants exploring sites including the Emir’s Palace and Kano’s historic city walls. These visits provided broader insight into the historical and political context that shaped the city’s development as a major centre of trade and governance in West Africa.

Organisers say the initiative is also part of a wider effort to reconnect younger generations with traditional building knowledge that is gradually disappearing. By bringing together architecture students and experienced craftsmen, the programme created a platform for intergenerational exchange, helping to ensure that the skills required to conserve historic structures are sustained. By combining practical training, heritage documentation and community engagement, the programme aims to contribute to the long-term preservation of Kano’s historic environment and to strengthen local capacity for conservation across the region.

 

The programme  concluded with a well-attended closing ceremony that brought together key dignitaries and stakeholders from across Kano State. High-level representatives attended on behalf of both HRH Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II, Emir of Kano, and the Honourable Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, reflecting the significance of the initiative at both traditional and governmental levels. The Emir was represented by Alhaji Mukhtar Ibrahim Bello, Falakin Kano, while the Honourable Commissioner Hajiya Aisha Lawan Saji Rano was represented by Auwalu Abubakar Yau the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Kano State Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The event culminated in the presentation of certificates to participants, followed by a formal vote of thanks delivered by Ahmad Ado Muhammad of the National Commission for Museums and Monuments, who acknowledged the collective efforts of partners, trainers and participants, and highlighted the programme’s lasting impact in strengthening heritage skills and capacity within the region.