The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has announced the appointment of five additional imams for the Abuja National Mosque.
This decision was outlined in a communique issued after the 10th meeting of the Expanded General Purpose Committee (EGPC) held at the National Mosque.
The Deputy Secretary-General of the NSCIA, Prof. Salisu Shehu, stated in the communique that the appointment aims to strengthen the mosque’s capacity to fulfill its religious and social duties to the Muslim community.
Newly Appointed Imams:
1. Prof. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu (Visiting Imam, North Central)
2. Dr. Abdulkadir Salman Sholagberu (Visiting Imam, North Central)
3. Prof. Luqman Zakariyah (Resident Imam, Southwest)
4. Ustadh Haroun Muhammad Eze, Esq. (Resident Imam, Southeast)
Existing Imams:
The current imams include:
Prof. Ibrahim Makari (Visiting Imam, Northwest)
Prof. Muhammad Kabir (Visiting Imam, Northeast)
Prof. Ilyas Usman (Visiting Imam, Southeast)
Sheikh Ahmad Onilewura (Resident Imam, Southwest), who is currently on medical leave.
The meeting, presided over by NSCIA President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, brought together prominent Muslim leaders from across the nation. Attendees included Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo (Deputy President-General, NSCIA – South), Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar (Etsu Nupe), Prof. Is-haq Oloyede (Secretary-General, NSCIA), and Prof. Muslih Yahaya (Executive Secretary, MUSWEN).
Council Resolutions
The NSCIA also addressed pressing national issues, urging federal and state governments, lawmakers, and political leaders to reduce political tension and polarization. It emphasized the need for trust-building, extensive consultations, and genuine dialogue regarding the proposed tax reform bills.
The council commended the government, traditional leaders, and religious stakeholders for their roles in reducing communal clashes nationwide, describing it as a significant achievement.
However, the council expressed concern about the harsh economic climate and its impact on Nigerians. It urged authorities to create a more business-friendly environment to alleviate the challenges faced by citizens and to ensure the effectiveness of ongoing reforms.
Additionally, the council highlighted the link between illegal mining activities and the high number of out-of-school children. It called on Muslims to assist the government in tackling illegal mining operations.
The council also stressed the importance of prioritizing food security and education, emphasizing their role in safeguarding the wellbeing of citizens at all levels of governance.