Nana Asmaʼu

Nana Asmaʼu, Arabic: نانا أسماء بنت عثمان فودي; 1793–1864) was a Fula princess, poet, teacher, and a daughter of the founder of the Sokoto Caliphate, Usman dan Fodio. She remains a revered figure in northern Nigeria. She is held up by some as an example of education and independence of women possible under Islam, and by others as a precursor to modern feminism in Africa.

Quotes

• “Oh Muslim women, do not listen to the words of the misguided ones who seek to lead you astray by ordering you to obey your husbands instead of telling you to obey God and His Messenger.
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• They impose on you duties which neither God nor His Messenger imposed on you. They make you cook, wash clothes and do other things which they desire while they fail to teach you that which Allah and His apostle have prescribed for you. Neither God nor His apostle charges you with such duties
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• They tell you that a woman’s happiness lies on obeying her husband. This is not more than a camouflage to make you satisfy their needs.
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• The heart ends up longing for its Lord, for such is the love of His servants

If Sa’ad has ever been fortunate and happy, it is due to the abundance of your beneficence and overflowing grace.

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