Why did Usman dan Fodio’s forces establish a base at Gwandu?

Usman dan Fodio’s forces established a base at Gwandu primarily to serve as a strategic administrative center for the western portion of the newly formed Fulani empire.1

Following the jihad against the Hausa kingdoms, Usman split his vast territory into two spheres of influence. He appointed his brother, Abdullahi dan Fodio, as the emir of Gwandu and placed him in charge of the western and southern emirates, such as Nupe and Ilorin.213

Gwandu was chosen for several key reasons:
* Strategic Location: Situated in the extreme northwest, it was near the origins of the jihad and allowed for potential further expansion up the Niger River toward the Kunta and the Fulani populations of Macina.1
* Administrative Division: While Sokoto served as the capital for the eastern half of the empire under Muhammad Bello, Gwandu functioned as the capital for the western half, ensuring the empire's vast territories were governed according to Islamic law.123