The National Mosque in Abuja has announced the historic appointment of Professor Ilyas Usman as its first Igbo Imam, marking a significant moment of inclusivity in Nigeria’s religious landscape.
Professor Usman, an acclaimed academic and the first Professor of Arabic in Igboland, will join the mosque’s spiritual leadership alongside Professor Ibrahim Makari and Professor Muhammad Kabir, who serve as the two active Imams.
He will lead Juma’ah (Friday) prayers and daily congregational prayers in a rotational arrangement with his colleagues. Usman succeeds Sheikh Ahmad Onilewura, a prominent Islamic leader from South-West Nigeria, who has been unable to continue his duties due to health issues.
The National Mosque, completed in 1984 and officially opened in 1991, accommodates up to 25,000 worshippers.
The South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON) has expressed its delight at the appointment of Professor Usman. In a congratulatory message signed by its acting National Chairman, Dr. Suleiman Afikpo, and National Executive Secretary, Ustaz Sirajuddeen Ugwu, the organization prayed for his success in this new role.
“We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Ilyas Usman on his appointment as an Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja. May Allah grant him wisdom, strength, and steadfastness in fulfilling his responsibilities,” SEMON stated.
The statement further noted:
“This prestigious role reflects Professor Usman’s dedication and scholarly excellence. It is both an honor and a divine responsibility to lead the Ummah in worship and service to Allah. We pray that his leadership fosters unity, peace, and piety among Muslims.”
SEMON also praised the National Mosque leadership and the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), led by its President-General,
