History of the National Association of Zazzau Students (NAZAS)
The National Association of Zazzau Students (NAZAS) was formed out of a deep desire to unite Zazzau students across tertiary institutions and to address educational, social, and cultural challenges affecting students from the Zazzau Emirate.
The roots of NAZAS can be traced back to the late 1990s and early 2000s, beginning with informal student groupings in Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria. At the time, two major student bodies existed independently: the Zazzau Forum at the Samaru Campus of ABU, and the Zaria Students Association in Congo Campus. These groups were established to foster unity and cooperation among Zazzau students within their respective campuses.
In the year 2000, these parallel efforts were harmonized into a single, unified platform. This unification marked a critical turning point, leading to the formation of a stronger and more inclusive forum that later evolved into a national body. Hon. Ahmed Maiyaki, then an undergraduate student of Mass Communication at ABU, emerged as a central figure in this process and became the pioneer president following a democratic election.
Purpose and Vision for Formation
The formation of NAZAS was driven by several pressing concerns. At the time, students from the Zazzau geopolitical zone were largely underrepresented and less active in broader student unions such as the Kaduna State Students Union (KADSSU) and its national counterpart, NAKASS. This lack of participation limited their collective voice and influence in student affairs at both state and national levels.
Beyond representation, there was also a serious educational challenge. Many secondary school students from Zazzau were unable to gain university admission due to poor performance in O’Level examinations. With only WAEC available at the time and no NECO alternative, the failure rate was high. In response, NAZAS partnered with the Zaria Educational Development Association (ZEDA) to organize evening and extra-moral classes. University students volunteered as teachers, offering free academic support to prepare younger students for their examinations and improve university enrollment from the emirate.
Another core objective was unity and mutual support. NAZAS was founded on the principle of “mutual integration for development”, encouraging students to support one another academically, socially, and financially. This collective spirit helped to counter long-standing stereotypes and myths that Zazzau people were disunited or unwilling to support one another.
Expansion and National Recognition
Following its successful establishment in ABU, the association expanded rapidly to other institutions across the country. Chapters were established in Bayero University Kano (BUK), Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi (ATBU), Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto (UDUS), and several other tertiary institutions nationwide. This expansion officially transformed the forum into the National Association of Zazzau Students (NAZAS).
The association enjoyed strong institutional and traditional backing. His Royal Highness, the late Emir of Zazzau, Alhaji Dr. Shehu Idris, provided moral guidance and unwavering support. Other notable figures, including the Matawallen Zazzau and the late Walin Zazzau, Alhaji Lawal Sambo, also played vital advisory and supportive roles in strengthening the association.
Cultural Promotion and Legacy
One of NAZAS’ most remarkable contributions was the promotion of Zazzau cultural heritage within academic environments. The association pioneered the introduction of the traditional Durbar festival into university campuses, particularly at ABU Zaria. With the support of the Emirate Council, hundreds of horses participated in what became a historic cultural display. This initiative not only celebrated Zazzau identity but also inspired similar cultural activities in other institutions across Kaduna State and beyond.
Over the years, NAZAS has produced leaders who have gone on to serve in key positions at state and national levels. Many founding members and early contributors are today commissioners, legislators, senior government officials, academics, and technocrats. Their continued relevance in public service stands as evidence of the solid leadership foundation laid by the association.
Enduring Relevance
More than 25 years after its formation, NAZAS remains active and relevant. Its survival and growth are largely attributed to the selfless intentions of its founders, who prioritized service, unity, and development over personal gain. This sincerity of purpose has ensured continuity, stability, and respect for democratic processes within the association.
NAZAS today stands not only as a student union but as a legacy institution—one that has successfully united generations of Zazzau students, preserved cultural heritage, promoted educational development, and nurtured leaders who continue to contribute meaningfully to society.