On November 12, 2026, Niger's Minister of Higher Education, Research, and Technological Innovation, Professor Mamadou Saidou, chaired the official ceremony to rename Diffa University to Hummay Salamna University. The event was attended by administrative and university authorities, traditional leaders, defense and security forces, technical and financial partners, teachers, and students. This renaming ceremony marks a significant milestone in the history of the university and the country.
The university has been renamed in honor of Hummay Salamna, a major historical figure from the Kanem-Bornou dynasty. He was the first sultan of this dynasty and founder of the Sayfawa lineage, which had a profound impact on the political and religious history of the Lake Chad basin for several centuries. The ceremony was a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the region, with traditional music, dance, and poetry performances.
The event featured several official speeches, artistic performances, and a historical presentation on Hummay Salamna and his legacy. A student from the university recited a poem that celebrated the history, cultural identity, and symbolic significance of the new name. The ceremony was marked by the sounds of traditional instruments, including the algaita and drums, which immersed the participants in the rich cultural heritage of the Lake Chad basin.
One of the highlights of the ceremony was a historical presentation on the Kanem-Bornou dynasty and Hummay Salamna by a notable from the palace of the Chief of the Komadougou canton. The presentation recalled the historical depth of the region, its political organization, cultural and religious influence, and the significance of Hummay Salamna. This presentation provided a valuable insight into the region's history and cultural significance.
In his speech, Professor Mamadou Saidou expressed his satisfaction and pride in presiding over the ceremony, which he described as an important event in the transformation of the national higher education system. He conveyed greetings from the President of the Republic, General Abdourahamane Tiani, and the Prime Minister, Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine, whose vision and determination made this initiative possible.
The Minister of Higher Education explained that the renaming of universities is part of a broader effort to refound higher education in Niger, with the aim of strengthening national sovereignty and making universities instruments of development for different regions of the country. He emphasized that the name given to a university is more than just a change of name; it must reflect the values and aspirations of the nation.
The renaming of Diffa University to Hummay Salamna University marks a new chapter in the history of the institution and the country. The ceremony was a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the region and a recognition of the significance of Hummay Salamna in the history of the Kanem-Bornou dynasty. The event brought together various stakeholders to reflect on the importance of preserving and promoting cultural heritage.
Key points
- The renaming of Diffa University to Hummay Salamna University is part of a broader effort to refound higher education in Niger and strengthen national sovereignty.
