National Mosque Abuja appoints first Igbo Imam, Ilyas Usman
In a historic move, the Abuja National Mosque has appointed Professor Ilyasu Usman as the first-ever Igbo Muslim to serve as Imam.
The announcement was made just before his inaugural khutbah (sermon), which is expected to be delivered today during Jumm’at prayers.
This appointment has been met with widespread celebration, particularly from the South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON), who described it as a testament to Prof. Usman’s dedication to Islamic scholarship and leadership. SEMON’s statement emphasized the significance of this achievement not only for the new Imam but for the entire Muslim community, particularly in the Igbo region.
The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) under the leadership of Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto, was praised for promoting inclusivity, as reflected in this groundbreaking appointment. SEMON expressed hope that Prof. Usman’s role would help foster unity among Muslims across Nigeria.
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Prof. Usman will join the existing team of Imams, which includes Prof. Ibrahim Makari and Prof. Muhammad Kabir, on a rotational basis for leading prayers. Another Imam, Sheikh Ahmad Onilewura, has been on extended sick leave, making Prof. Usman’s addition especially timely.
The South East Muslim Organisation conveyed their best wishes to the new Imam, praying for his success in discharging his duties with “diligence, integrity, and humility,” and hoping that his leadership inspires unity, peace, and devotion.
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