Sarkin Zazzan Alhaji Muhammadu Aminu was the seventeen Fulani Emir of Zazzau and the third from Katsinawa ruling dynasty. He was the direct grandson of Iya Usman, son of Emir of Sarkin Zazzau, Mallam Abdulkarimu. Prior to his succession to the throne, Aminu had held the title of Wakilin Tsafta and was letter appointed Iyan Zazzau, the District Head of Sabon Gari.
While he was the Iyan Zazzau, Aminu tremendously contributed to the development and expansion of the colonial town of Sabon Gari, which accelerated the establishment of Sabon Gari market. He also created and upheld the good understanding between the diverse ethnic groups living in his district.
Development in Zazzau began to take place during his reign as the first tarred roads were constructed in Zaria from Gwargwaje to Kofar-Doka. The re-construction of Zaria City market also took place during his reign and a motor park was constructed at Jakara, near the city market, a place formerly used for executing criminals.
Aminu also established the provincial headquarters of Jama’atu Nasril Islam, a place which includes the surroundings of the palace. He also gained additional credit for the reconstruction of Zaria city Central Mosque to a modern standard as it appears today.