DECLARED MONUMENTS IN NIGERIA

Gidan Madakin Bauchi in Kafin Madaki, near Bauchi:

The house and compound at Kafin Madaki, 28 mile North of Bauchi, known as Gidan Madakin, Bauchi was built in 1860 by the celebrated master builder Babban Gwani of Zaria.

The main hall (and some other buildings) within the compound of Madakin Bauchi are the work of Babban Gwani, who about the period 1850-1860 was renowned in Hausaland for his skill. He died in Birnin Gwari in about 1862 at the hands of his Patron who would tolerate no other ruler acquiring a house finer than his own.

The Zaure or entrance hall is a room 13' x 28' and has a flat roof supported on four massive square columns.

Nine boys are formed and roof are constructed in Azare timber and mud. The Babban Gwani or main hall present no less advantages than the site. With their ancient traditions and unspoilt architectural character they justly are among the most revered buildings with its splendid type of domed roof and very impressive form of the arches.

The main hall is fitted with leather covered doors. It is approximately 20' x 15' and its roof is supported with one central beam.

The walls surrounding the structure vary in size. The south side perimeter wall is approximately 44' long 15' high and has been periodically restored. The North-east perimeter wall is about 31' long and 20' high. Adjacent is the mosque, the construction of the interior of which is similar to that of the Zaure of Gidan Makama, Kano.

Declaration
Declared Monument 16th February, 1956. The house and the compound