Breaking Barriers: Abuja National Mosque Gets First Igbo Imam

Igbo Imam Leads Abuja National Mosque

“This prestigious role is not only a testament to your unwavering dedication and scholarly excellence...”

Professor Ilyas Usman makes history as 1st Igbo Imam at Abuja National Mosque - SEMON celebrates milestone appointment.

The National Mosque in Abuja has welcomed Professor Ilyas Usman as its newly appointed Imam. As a trailblazer, Professor Usman is the first Professor of Arabic in Igboland, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role. He joins the existing team of Imams, including Professor Ibrahim Makari and Professor Muhammad Kabir, to lead the Juma'ah and daily congregational prayers on a rotational basis.

The Team of Imams

Professor Ilyas Usman: The newly appointed Imam and first Professor of Arabic in Igboland

Professor Ibrahim Makari: A seasoned Imam and scholar

Professor Muhammad Kabir: A respected Imam and expert in Islamic studies

Sheikh Ahmad Onilewura, the fourth Imam from Southwest Nigeria, is currently unable to fulfill his duties due to health reasons. With Professor Usman's appointment, the National Mosque now has three active Imams, working alongside the Murshid, Professor Shehu Ahmad Sai'd Galadanci, who serves as the spiritual leader and general administrator.

A Brief History of the National Mosque

Established in 1984 and officially opened in 1991, the National Mosque is a significant landmark in Abuja. Designed by AIM Consultants Limited, the mosque's stunning architecture blends traditional and modern elements, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Islam in Nigeria. The mosque can accommodate over 10,000 worshippers, making it one of the largest in Africa.

The South East Muslims Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON) has congratulated Professor Ilyas Usman on his appointment as Imam of the National Mosque in Abuja with heartfelt prayers. They're seeking divine guidance, wisdom, and strength for him to excel in this vital role, ensuring his leadership benefits the Muslim community. This gesture reflects SEMON's commitment to supporting Islamic growth and unity in Nigeria, a country with a significant Muslim population, approximately 105 million people, the largest in Africa. By offering prayers, SEMON demonstrates its enthusiasm for Professor Usman's contributions to the Muslim community, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation.

“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.

The South East Muslims Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON) is celebrating a major milestone with Professor Ilyas Usman's appointment as Imam of the National Mosque in Abuja. They're expressing hopes that this achievement will elevate the Igbo Muslim community in Nigeria, highlighting their dedication and contributions to Islam and the broader Muslim community.

As SEMON's leadership noted, “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.” This statement was jointly signed by SEMON's Acting National Chairman, Dr. Suleiman Afikpo, and National Executive Secretary, Ustaz Sirajuddeen Ugwu.

This development is significant, especially considering Nigeria's substantial Muslim population, estimated to be around 105 million people, making it the largest in Africa.