This chapter investigates the shared intellectual background of Uthman bin Fodio and Ibn Khaldun, focusing on a comparative analysis of their perspectives regarding the decline of states, societies, and dynasties. Both thinkers identified several contributing factors to this decline, including the indulgence in a life of luxury, oppression and injustice, the imposition of burdensome taxes on subjects, as well as corruption and favouritism. Furthermore, the chapter elucidates that Uthman bin Fodio and Ibn Khaldun not only shared similar views regarding these factors but also explored how Ibn Khaldun’s ideas influenced Uthman’s thought. Accordingly, the chapter evaluates the instances in which Uthman bin Fodio references Ibn Khaldun in his writings, thereby facilitating an understanding of the extent to which Ibn Khaldun’s scholarship impacted Uthman’s reformative agenda. Thus, the identification of a common intellectual heritage between the two figures is not unexpected, given that Uthman bin Fodio’s achievements were significantly informed by the influence of Ibn Khaldun’s scholarly contributions.