At a star-studded premiere at Genesis Deluxe Cinema, Abuja, Blue Sapphire Hub unveiled Fasahar Zamani, a powerful 12-episode Hausa film series exploring the impact of digital technology on life, opportunity, and innovation in Northern Nigeria. The project, funded by the UK Government through its Global Digital Access Programme, has quickly become one of the most talked-about creative technology initiatives in the region.
Founded by tech innovator Maryam Lawan Gwadabe, Blue Sapphire Hub has long been at the forefront of digital inclusion in Northern Nigeria. With Fasahar Zamani, the hub takes a bold new step: using film and storytelling to bring digital knowledge to grassroots communities in a culturally relevant and accessible way.
A Story of Innovation, Inclusion, and the Future
Speaking at the premiere, Maryam Gwadabe walked the audience through the journey behind the film. She explained how the idea was born from the need to simplify complex digital concepts for everyday people; farmers, traders, parents, youth, and especially women and underserved communities.
Each episode of Fasahar Zamani focuses on a different area of digital transformation, including:
AgriTech – how farmers can use digital tools to boost productivity
EdTech– technology’s role in learning
CivicTech – digital participation and governance
HealthTech– how technology supports healthcare delivery
Online safety & gender-based violence– protecting vulnerable groups in the digital age
Delivered in Hausa and subtitled in English, the series bridges the gap between tradition and emerging global technologies, offering a relatable blueprint for how digital tools can reshape society.
A Call to Action
One of the evening’s highlights was the presence of the former Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, who commended the creators and emphasized the importance of digital adoption across Northern Nigeria.
In his remarks, El-Rufai urged Northern governors to invest in technology talent, provide seed funding for young innovators, and support hubs like Blue Sapphire in building the next generation of digital leaders. He also called for stronger technological integration in national processes, including electoral systems as Nigeria advances toward the future. His presence shows the project’s significance: Fasahar Zamani is not just entertainment; it is a strategic tool for policy influence, youth engagement, and digital development.
A Milestone for Kannywood and Beyond
Fasahar Zamani marks a turning point for Kannywood, Northern Nigeria’s vibrant film industry. It expands the industry’s scope by demonstrating how film can be both entertaining and educational, merging digital advocacy with compelling narratives.
The series also represents a breakthrough for women in tech. With Maryam Lawan Gwadabe founder of one of the first female-owned tech hubs in the North, leading the project, it sends a powerful message about gender inclusion in innovation and film production.
Beyond Nigeria, Fasahar Zamani stands as a model for how African creators can use culturally grounded storytelling to promote digital literacy, empower communities, and support policy change.
