Digital Tech: ‘Fasahar Zamani’, First-ever UK-funded Hausa Series Premieres

The first-ever Hausa movie series, entitled “Fasahar Zamani”, funded by the United Kingdom International Development to promote digital adoption in northern Nigeria, has premiered with   12 exciting episodes.

The unveiling of the “Fasahar Zamani” skit series, which took place under the accelerating digital adoption in Northern Nigeria, was held at the Genesis Cinema in Abuja on Thursday night, with an impressive gathering of film stars, producers, diplomats, and other dignitaries. The production brims with ideas turned into creativity, with impacts in various sectors.

In an interview with journalists, former governor of Kaduna State, Nasiru El-Rufai, who was a special guest, commended the UK government for supporting the initiative and urged northern state governments to replicate the idea to grow digital technology in the region.

“This initiative, which the government of the United Kingdom funds is very commendable because northern Nigeria is yet to come to terms with the reality of the tech age and we need to have a soft way of introducing this and making it attractive and exciting for our young people.

“I think this production of 12 episodes will go a long way in attracting the attention of our young people as well as their parents for digital technology as we move into the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI).”

The founder of Blue Sappire Hub, which produced the movies, Maryam Lawan, in her address, said “Fasahar Zamani” is more than just a series. She said that it is a story of innovation, inclusion and transformation. She said through this project, the producers are using the power of storytelling to bridge the digital divide and inspire communities to embrace the world of technology.

Lawan said, “For the next 12 weeks on Arewa24, millions will experience stories that reflect their own lives — from EdTech to FinTech, AgriTech, and even technology-facilitated gender-based violence. Each episode shows how technology can transform lives, open opportunities, and empower communities across Northern Nigeria.

“What makes ‘Fasahar Zamani’ fascinating is that, for the very first time, we are infusing technology and Hausa film — two powerful tools of culture and innovation. So, if you notice anything that’s not professionally perfect, please pardon us — it’s the charm of first-timers! What matters most is the message — that we are taking deliberate steps to make sure every part of the northern ecosystem, from the village of Kunchi, to the city centre of Rafindadi, to Bulunkutu in Maiduguri, is digitally included and taking full advantage of the digital tools around them,” she said.

The country lead, Digital Access Programme of the United Kingdom International Development Mr. Idongesit Udoh, expressed delight with the production, adding that it demonstrated how innovation can transform lives in northern Nigeria. He pointed out that the UK is proud to support Nigeria’s digital development through its digital access programme.

One of the actors, Umar Gombe, told reporters that each episode features a specific digital content that tells stories that can teach people about various things.