Professor Yusufu Bala Usman (1945-2005) was a radical Nigerian historian and political economist. He earned his PhD from the University of Ibadan and taught at Ahmadu Bello University for decades. Usman applied Marxist analysis to Nigerian and African history, challenging both colonial and neo-colonial narratives. His influential works include "The Transformation of Katsina" and "The Manipulation of Religion in Nigeria." Usman was a fearless critic of military dictatorships and economic exploitation. He mentored numerous scholars and activists committed to social justice. His intellectual courage and prolific writing made him one of Nigeria's most important public intellectuals. Usman's work continues to influence progressive thought in Nigeria and Africa.


HISTORIAN OF THE PEOPLE:
Professor Yusufu Bala Usman reinterpreted Nigerian history through the lens of everyday citizens rather than colonial administrators. His seminal work The Manipulation of Religion in Nigeria exposed how elites exploit faith for political gain.

ACADEMIC REFORMER:
At Ahmadu Bello University he advocated research that served rural communities, championing oral histories and participatory methodologies. He co-founded the Centre for Democratic Development, Research and Training (CEDDERT) to link scholarship with activism.

POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT:
Usman advised progressive movements, opposed military rule, and pushed for equitable resource control. He supported farmers’ cooperatives and worked with labour unions, ensuring scholarship informed policy debates.

LEGACY OF COURAGE:
His students include leading academics, governors, and activists who continue to challenge injustice. The Bala Usman Foundation preserves his archives, hosts public lectures, and funds community research grants.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 23 August 1945 in Musawa, Katsina State; died 24 September 2005.
- Education: BA History (ABU Zaria), PhD (University of Ibadan).
- Publications: The Transformation of Katsina, For the Liberation of Nigeria.
- Ideology: people-centred development rooted in historical truth.