Emir Bayero releases schedule for Sallah Durbar, notifies security agencies

The 15th Fulani Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, has formally notified security agencies of preparations for the 2026 Sallah Durbar celebrations to be held at the Emir’s Palace in Nasarawa, Kano.

In a letter dated March 7, 2026, and addressed to the Commissioner of Police in the state, the Kano Emirate Council under Bayero said the notification was to ensure adequate security arrangements for the traditional festivities that mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan and the celebration of Eid al‑Fitr.

SolaceBase reports that the letter, signed by the Private Secretary to the Emir, Abdullahi Haruna Kwaru, stated that the Emir and members of the Emirate Council had approved the program of activities for the Sallah celebrations.

The events include the traditional Hawan Sallah, Hawan Daushe, Hawan Nasarawa and Hawan Panisau, as well as other cultural performances.

According to the schedule released by the palace, the Sallah day activities will begin with a royal procession from the palace to the Eid prayer ground, followed by the Eid prayer and sermon.

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After the prayer, the Emir will lead a series of traditional horse-riding processions accompanied by district heads and palace officials.

Later in the day, the Emir will receive greetings from traditional title holders, government officials and members of the public at the palace.

The following day, Saturday, March 21, will feature Hawan Daushe, during which the Emir will ride through several major routes in the city, accompanied by district heads and palace guards, before returning to the palace.

On Sunday, March 22, the celebrations will continue with Hawan Nasarawa, another historic Durbar procession that traditionally takes place around the Nasarawa area of the ancient city.

The palace also expressed appreciation to security agencies for their continued cooperation in maintaining peace and order during the festivities, while praying for a peaceful and successful Sallah celebration across the state.

The Sallah Durbar in Kano is one of the most prominent cultural events in northern Nigeria, attracting thousands of residents and visitors who gather to witness the colourful display of horsemanship, traditional regalia and royal pageantry.

The announcement comes amid the lingering leadership dispute within the Kano Emirate following the reinstatement of Muhammadu Sanusi II by the Abba Kabir Yusuf administration, a development that has led to legal and political tensions in the state.

Despite the crisis, the palace of Emir Aminu Ado Bayero has continued to carry out traditional activities from the Nasarawa palace while awaiting the final outcome of ongoing legal processes regarding the emirate leadership.