The National Mosque in Abuja has welcomed Professor Ilyas Usman as its newly appointed Imam. As the first Professor of Arabic in Igboland, Usman jo
The National Mosque in Abuja has welcomed Professor Ilyas Usman as its newly appointed Imam.
As the first Professor of Arabic in Igboland, Usman joins the existing team of three Imams at the mosque.
He will collaborate with the two active Imams, Professor Ibrahim Makari and Professor Muhammad Kabir, to lead the Juma’ah and daily congregational prayers in a rotational capacity.
The fourth Imam, Sheikh Ahmad Onilewura from Southwest Nigeria, has been unable to fulfill his duties due to health reasons.
With this new appointment from the Southeast, the National Mosque, which was established in 1984 and officially opened in 1991, the Mosque now boasts three active Imams alongside the Murshid, Professor Shehu Ahmad Sai’d Galadanci, who serves as the spiritual leader and general administrator.
In response to Usman’s appointment, the South East Muslims Organisation of Nigeria, SEMON, offered prayers, asking Allah to endow him with the wisdom and strength needed to fulfill this important role.
“We the South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria, SEMON, extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Ilyasu Usman on your recent appointment as an Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja.”
“This prestigious role is not only a testament to your unwavering dedication and scholarly excellence but also a divine blessing and responsibility to lead the Ummah in worship and service to Allah.
“We pray that Allah (SWT) grants you the wisdom, strength, and steadfastness to discharge this sacred duty with diligence, integrity, and humility. May your leadership inspire unity, peace, and piety.
“We also attest to the inclusiveness of the leadership of the National Mosque and Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, NSCIA, under the leadership of its President General, His Eminence, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar,” the statement read.
“Furthermore, we pray that this achievement serves as an uplift for the Igbo Muslim community in Nigeria, showcasing their contributions and dedications to Islam and the Ummah at large,” the group said, in a statement signed by its Ag. National Chairman, Dr. Suleiman Afikpo and National Executive Secretary, Ustaz Sirajuddeen Ugwu.
