Abuja

Professor Ilyas Usman Becomes First Igbo Imam at National Mosque Abuja

Published

5 months ago

October 19, 2024

Aliyu Umar

Professor Ilyas Usman

Professor Ilyas Usman, a renowned scholar and the first Professor of Arabic in Igboland, has made history as the first Igbo Imam to be appointed to the National Mosque in Abuja.

He will join forces with Imams Professor Ibrahim Makari and Professor Muhammad Kabir to lead prayers at the mosque, taking on the responsibilities of leading Juma’ah and daily congregational prayers in a rotational manner.

This significant appointment fills the position left vacant by Sheikh Ahmad Onilewura from South-West Nigeria, who has been unable to lead prayers due to illness. The South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON) has welcomed the appointment, offering prayers for Professor Usman’s success.

SEMON’s statement highlighted Professor Usman’s dedication and scholarly excellence, calling his appointment “a divine blessing and responsibility to lead the Ummah in worship and service to Allah” .

They prayed for Allah to grant him wisdom, strength, and steadfastness to discharge his duties with diligence, integrity, and humility.

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The National Mosque, built in 1984 and officially opened in 1991, is a prominent Islamic institution that can accommodate 25,000 worshippers. Its leadership, under President General Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has demonstrated inclusiveness, showcasing the contributions and dedications of the Igbo Muslim community in Nigeria .

Professor Ilyas Usman’s Appointment: First Igbo Imam at the National Mosque in Abuja
Responsibilities: Leading Juma’ah and daily congregational prayers alongside two other Imams
SEMON’s Reaction: Heartfelt congratulations and prayers for Professor Usman’s success
National Mosque’s Significance: A symbol of Islamic faith and national unity, accommodating 25,000 worshippers