Abuja national mosque gets first Igbo Imam

The management of the national mosque in Abuja has appointed Iliyasu Usman, a professor of Arabic, as the first Imam from the south-east region.

The South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON) disclosed this on Friday in a congratulatory message to Usman.

The group described the appointment as a reflection of Usman’s dedication to Islamic scholarship and leadership.

SEMON noted that the appointment is not only a significant personal achievement for the new cleric, but a “divine responsibility to lead the Muslim community in worship and service to Allah”.

The organisation highlighted the “inclusiveness” of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) under the leadership of Muhammad Abubakar, its president-general, and the Sultan of Sokoto.

The group expressed optimism that Usman’s appointment would uplift the faith of Muslims from the south-east region and promote unity within the Nigerian Muslim population.

Usman takes up his new role alongside the two active Imams — Ibrahim Makari and Muhammad Kabir.

Sheikh Onilewura, the fourth Imam, has been on an extended sick leave.