The Kano Mind: The Formation of a Modern Hybrid Muslim Elite, its World View, and its Social Cultural Influence on Kano Muslim Society c. 1945-2003
This study transcends the traditional classifications of contemporary Kano Muslim intellectuals, whom I designate as hybrid Muslim elites, based on the roles of different groups, including Sufi orders and the Salafi movement, with the Izala sect being particularly prominent. In contrast to the Turūq or Salafi expressions of faith, these hybrid Muslims engaged in collaboration irrespective of their sectarian affiliations. The rise of this vibrant group is linked to the Islamiyya school system, initiated by traditional Muslim elites as a proactive measure against the pervasive impact of Western secular education on Muslim ethical values, especially in relation to child upbringing. As a result, the first Islamiyya School was established in the mid-1940s to cater to children enrolled in Western-style educational institutions. Over time, the Islamiyya system evolved into a comprehensive educational framework that integrated both Western and Islamic curricula. This model was later adopted by formal educational establishments, including high schools, colleges, and universities, thus nurturing a generation of hybrid intellectuals proficient in both Islamic and Western secular knowledge. These Muslim elites, endowed with a range of intellectual skills, have played a crucial role in shaping the religious landscape of Kano. The analysis conducted in this study highlights the notable impact of hybrid Muslims, who have engaged in both horizontal and vertical forms of activism. These concepts reflect a profound dedication to religious beliefs and Islamic values, roles that have historically been linked to the traditional ulama.