Wurno was founded in 1830 by Muhammad Bello, Caliph of the Sokoto Caliphate (r. 1817–1837). It was established as a ribat (fort) to defend Sokoto from the northeast, serving as Bello's principal ribat and residence in the area. Wurno was the staging point for the annual dry-season campaigns against the Gobirawa and other enemies of the Caliphate. Bello's successors sometimes made it their capital, especially towards the end of the 19th century.[3][4]: 184 Upon his death, Bello was buried in the ribat, on his insistence.[4]: 78
The town was a major agricultural center within the Caliphate, providing substantial agricultural supplies to Sokoto. Every major official of the Caliphate had a plantation there, and much of Sokoto's food came from Wurno. A key figure in Wurno's agricultural success was Muhammad Buji, a member of the former ruling family of Kebbi. He moved from Bunkari to Wurno in response to Bello's call and taught the residents advanced agricultural techniques, especially for dry season cultivation. This expertise led to his appointment as the first Faddama, a post passed down to his descendants. As Faddama, he oversaw dry season cultivation and administered the Fadama ward of Wurno. His relocation also encouraged many people from Bunkari to join him in Wurno.[3]
Climate
A hot, oppressive rainy season with predominantly cloudy skies and a scorching, partly cloudy dry season with temperatures between 62°F and 105°F are both characteristics of the climate.[5][6]
