Rigachikun

Rigachikun or Rigacikun is a town located in the Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria. It is situated in the northern region of Nigeria.[2]

Rigachikun
رگاچیکن
Rigacikun
Town
Rigachikun is located in Nigeria
Rigachikun
Rigachikun
Location in Nigeria
Coordinates: 11.2706°N 7.4000°E / 11.2706; 7.4000
CountryNigeria
StateKaduna State
Local Government AreaIgabi
Government
 • Traditional LeaderMarigayi Muhammad Jalo
 • ChiefFalalu Bello
 • Speaker of the HouseYusuf Zailani
Area
 • Total42.5 km2 (16.4 sq mi)
Elevation
635 m (2,083 ft)
Population
 (2022)
 • Total78,543
 • Density1,800/km2 (4,800/sq mi)
Time zoneUTC+1 (WAT)
Postal code
800102 [1]

Etymology

The name Rigachikun is believed to have its origins in the Hausa language, the predominant language spoken in the region. In Hausa, "Riga" means "town," and "Chikun" may refer to a historical figure or event.[3] The exact etymology remains a subject of discussion among linguists and historians.[4]

History

The history of Rigachikun is intertwined with the broader history of Kaduna State and northern Nigeria.

Early settlement

Rigachikun has ancient roots, with evidence of early human habitation dating back centuries. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was inhabited by various ethnic groups, including the Hausa, Fulani, and Gwari. These early settlers engaged in agriculture, trade, and craftsmanship.[5]

Precolonial era

During the precolonial era, Rigachikun was part of the Hausa city-states and served as a centre for trade and cultural exchange. The town was known for its marketplaces. Local rulers, such as Marigayi Muhammad Jalo, Marigayi Dan Masani, and Marigayi Sa'idu Dan Janga, played roles in maintaining peace and stability.

Colonial period

With the advent of British colonial rule in Nigeria, Rigachikun, like many other communities, experienced changes.[6] The British established administrative structures in the region, impacting the traditional governance system.[7]

Post-independence era

Following Nigeria's independence in 1960, Rigachikun continued to evolve. The town experienced infrastructural development, improved access to education, and a growing population. Notable figures like Falalu Bello and Tanimu Zailani contributed to the town's progress through their involvement in public service and community development projects.[8][9]

Notable figures

Rigachikun has been the birthplace and residence of several individuals who have made contributions to various fields. Some of these notable figures include:

  • Falalu Bello: An author and scholar who has written on Hausa culture and literature.[10]
  • Tanimu Zailani: A politician and community leader known for advocating for social justice and development.
  • Yusuf Ibrahim Zailani: The current Speaker of the House.
  • Yaro Makama: A traditional titleholder who has preserved the town's cultural heritage.

Geography

Rigachikun is situated at an elevation of 635 meters above sea level. It covers an area of approximately 42.5 square kilometres and is known for its landscapes, including farmlands and surrounding hills.[11][12]

Demographics

As of 2022, Rigachikun had a population of 78,543 residents. The town's population is ethnically diverse, with Hausa, Fulani, Gwari, and other ethnic groups coexisting harmoniously.[13]

Economy

The economy of Rigachikun is predominantly agrarian, with farming being the primary occupation of the residents. The town is known for producing crops such as maize, millet, and groundnuts. Additionally, trade and small-scale businesses contribute to the local economy.[14]

Culture

Rigachikun has a cultural heritage, with traditional festivals, music, and dances being part of community life. The town is also known for its traditional architecture, characterized by mud-brick houses and thatched roofs.[15]

Education

The town has primary and secondary schools, contributing to the education of Rigachikun's youth.[16][17]

References
  1. "Rigachikun ,Kaduna - 800102 Postal Code". Postal code. Retrieved 8 September 2023.
  2. FAIS Journal of Humanities. Faculty of Arts and Islamic Studies, Bayero University. 2011.
  3. Jimoh, W. L. O.; Mohammed, M. I. (2016-11-29). "Transfer of heavy metals from soil to lettuce (Lactuca sativa) grown in irrigated farmlands of Kaduna Metropolis, Nigeria". Nigerian Journal of Chemical Research. 21: 1–11. doi:10.4314/njcr.v21i1. ISSN 1119-0221.
  4. Ayuba, B.; Mugu, B. A.; Tanko, H.; Bulus, S. J. (2016). "Geo-spatial analysis of crime in Kaduna Metropolis, Nigeria". Science World Journal. 11 (4): 7–15. doi:10.4314/swj.v11i4. ISSN 1597-6343.
  5. A, Lawal A.; Abdulsalami, M. S.; A, Vantsawa P.; S, Kabir M.; S, Sufiyanu (2022-08-21). "Isolation and Characterisation of Paraquat Degrading Bacteria from Agricultural Soil in Rigachikun Area of Kaduna Metropolis, Nigeria". International Journal of Science for Global Sustainability. 8 (2): 6–6. ISSN 2488-9229.
  6. Rigachikun, Aliyu S. Usman (2004). Ayi dai mu gani: idan tusa zata hura wuta (in Hausa). Sabon-Gero.
  7. Rigachikun, Muhammed (2012). Hero of Democracy: Aminu Kano : Politics, Speeches, Tributes. Nationtel Limited.
  8. Yusuf, Ahmed; Sanusi, L. Saadatu; Omah, Joy Emmanuel (2019). "Diffusion and access to information on family planning in Rigachikun community of Kaduna State". Samaru Journal of Information Studies. 19 (2): 15–25. ISSN 1596-5414.
  9. Obasi, S. N.; Jokthan, G. E.; Obasi, C. C.; Iwuagwu, C. C.; Shani, B. B. (2023-08-10). "Characterization and Classification of Soils of Rigachikun- Kaduna, Northern Guinea Savanna, Nigeria". Nigeria Agricultural Journal. 54 (1): 378–389. doi:10.4314/naj.v54i1.252659. ISSN 0300-368X.
  10. "Mallam Falalu Bello, Jaiz Bank PLC: Profile and Biography". Bloomberg.com. Retrieved 2023-09-08.
  11. "RigachikunFacts, History , Location & Population". AllNews Nigeria. 27 May 1967. Retrieved 8 September 2023.
  12. Transafrican Journal of History. East African Publishing House. 1988.
  13. Auta, K.; Lawal, A.; Basira, I.; Mohammed, S. A.; Isaac, I. A. (2021). "Bacteriological and parasitological analysis of hand-dugged well water in selected areas of Rigachikun community, Kaduna". Science World Journal. 16 (4): 428–432. ISSN 1597-6343.
  14. "Ku San Malamanku tare da Sheikh Yusuf Sambo Rigachikun". BBC News Hausa (in Hausa). 2023-07-21. Retrieved 2023-09-08.
  15. Korau, Muhammed Kabir (2007). Zazzau Book of Biographical Information. Yaliam Press. ISBN 978-978-066-377-3.
  16. Directory on Primary Schools in Kaduna State (in Hausa). Kaduna State Universal Basic Education Board. 2005.
  17. Sadiq, Shakirat (2023-08-13). "Youths Plant 1,000 trees To Tackle Climate Change Youths from four communities in Kajuru Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Kaduna State". Voice of Nigeria. Retrieved 2023-09-08.
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