"In this colonial courtship, reciprocal loyalty was granted to loyal Kings.  Among them was Muhammadu Dikko who enjoyed a substantial support from the British. Despite Katsina Emirate's "mid-level" status in the Sokoto caliphate hierarchy, Dikko, as the emir, became Britain's favored chief in Nigeria. His journey into colonialism's orbit and subsequent relationship with British  played a pivotal role in this favoritism.

Dikko's precolonial life is gleaned from his Hausa-language biography, dictated to his scribe, Malam Barmo. This narrative, recorded by Bello Kagara, Dikko's confidant, reflects a selective retelling enhanced by favorable mediation. At the onset of the British protectorate in Northern Nigeria in 1900, Dikko held the title of Durbi in Katsina, later ascending to emir through intrigues and the British desire for loyal local allies while Abubakar  was removed and exiled to Ilorin in January 1905. 

In 1921 and 1924, Muhammadu Dikko, the emir of Katsina, made historic visits to Britain, marking the first time a leader from Northern Nigeria journeyed to the British imperial center.

As a crucial figure in the transition from precolonial sovereignty to British colonization, Dikko served as a court official, merchant, and warrior. Emir Abubakar, wary of Dikko's growing influence, sent him to command troops guarding the frontier. Dikko's appointment as emir was attributed to his courageous loyalty during a critical political situation, showcasing his pivotal role in the colonial era's unfolding dynamics."

Summarised from the article: COLONIAL ITINERARIES: MUHAMMADU DIKKO’S METROPOLITAN ADVENTURES by Moses Ochonu: Vanderbilt University published by Cambridge University Press.

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