The National Mosque in Abuja has appointed Professor Ilyas Usman, the first Igbo Imam, to join its prestigious ranks.
Prof. Usman, a renowned scholar and the first Professor of Arabic in Igboland, will now serve alongside the two active Imams, Professor Ibrahim Makari and Professor Muhammad Kabir, in leading the mosque’s prayers.
Usman will be taking on the responsibilities of leading the Juma’ah and daily congregational prayers, alongside his colleagues, in a rotational manner.
He fills the position left by Sheikh Ahmad Onilewura from South-West Nigeria, who has been unable to lead prayers due to illness.
The National Mosque, which can accommodate 25,000 worshippers, was built in 1984 and officially opened in 1991.
The South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON) welcomed the appointment, offering prayers for his success.
This was according to a statement signed by its Ag. National Chairman, Dr. Suleiman Afikpo and National Executive Secretary, Ustaz Sirajuddeen Ugwu, on Friday.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Ilyas Usman on your recent appointment as an Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja. May Allah grant him wisdom and strength in fulfilling his duties,” SEMON stated.
The statement read, “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.”
“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 added.