[3] Founded in the sixteenth century by the Kabbawa, a Hausa people Gwandu today acts as one of the four emirates composing Kebbi State.

The town's origins can be traced back to its earlier days as a small village under the leadership of the royal farmer of Kanta Kotal, who was the first King of Kebbi who reigned from 1517 to 1561.

One of the factors contributing to the growth of Gwandu was its favorable geographical location and the presence of fertile lands.

After the Kebbi expedition during the Sokoto jihad, Gwandu emerged as a significant and permanent base for Usman dan Fodio and his followers.

The geographical location of Gwandu, nestled in a valley with surrounding ridges, provided natural advantages for defense against external attacks.