In a historic and unprecedented move, the management board of the National Mosque in Abuja has appointed Professor Ilyas Usman as an Imam, making him the first Igbo to ever hold such a prestigious position at the mosque..
Professor Usman, an esteemed academic and a Muslim scholar, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role. He is also recognized as the first Professor of Arabic studies from Igboland, a remarkable achievement that has earned him immense respect within the Muslim community.
Today, Friday, October 18, 2024, Professor Usman delivered his inaugural khutbah (sermon) at the National Mosque, a momentous occasion that many are eagerly awaiting.
His appointment as one of the three Imams at the mosque puts him in the ranks of prominent Islamic scholars like Professors Ibrahim Makari and Muhammad Kabir, who currently serve as Imams in a rotational capacity for the mosque’s Friday Jumu’ah prayers and daily prayers.
The appointment of Professor Usman has been met with widespread celebration, particularly among the Igbo Muslim community and Muslims in the South-East region of Nigeria.
For years, the Igbo Muslim community has been a minority group, often facing challenges due to their unique religious and cultural identity within the predominantly Christian South-East.
Professor Usman’s appointment is seen as a recognition of the contributions of Igbo Muslims to Islam and an acknowledgment of their presence within the larger Nigerian Muslim community.
The South East Muslims Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON) has expressed its joy over Professor Usman’s new role at the National Mosque. In a statement released to the media, SEMON praised Usman’s scholarly excellence and his dedication to the Islamic faith.
The group’s acting national chairman, Dr. Suleiman Afikpo, and the National Executive Secretary, Ustaz Sirajuddeen Ugwu, both signed the statement, congratulating Professor Usman and praying for his success in his new role.
“We, the South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON), extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Ilyas Usman on his recent appointment as an Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja. This prestigious role is a testament to your unwavering dedication and scholarly excellence,” the statement read.
The group expressed hope that Professor Usman’s leadership would inspire peace, unity, and religious piety within the Muslim community in Nigeria.
“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,” SEMON added.
The South-East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria also commended the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and the leadership of the National Mosque for their commitment to inclusiveness.
The NSCIA, under the leadership of the President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, was specifically praised for its efforts to ensure that all Muslims, regardless of their ethnic background, are represented and included in national Islamic affairs.
“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,” SEMON said.
The group emphasized that Professor Usman’s appointment could serve as an upliftment for the entire Igbo Muslim community in Nigeria, showcasing their contributions to Islam and the larger Muslim Ummah.
“This achievement will serve as a source of pride and encouragement for Igbo Muslims, demonstrating that their dedication to Islam and the Ummah is being recognized at the highest levels,” SEMON stated.
