News
National Mosque appoints Igbo man as Imam
By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
The Abuja National Mosque has appointed Professor Iliyasu Usman as the first-ever Igbo Muslim Imam of the mosque
According to reports, the new Imam who delivered his inaugural khutbah (sermon) during the Jumm’at prayer today(Friday), has joined the two active Imams, Prof. Ibrahim Makari and Prof. Muhammad Kabir, in leading the Juma’ah and daily congregational prayers on a rotational basis, as the fourth Imam, Sheikh Ahmad Onilewura from Southwest Nigeria, has been on sick leave and absent from leading prayers for an extended period.
His appointment has been widely celebrated by the Muslim community, particularly among the South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON).
In a statement, SEMON who congratulated Prof. Usman described the appointment as a reflection of his dedication to Islamic scholarship and leadership.
The group emphasised that the appointment is not only a significant personal achievement for the new Imam but also a divine responsibility to lead the Muslim community in worship and service to Allah.
The body also highlighted the inclusiveness of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) under the leadership of the President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar.
SEMON expressed hope that Prof. Usman’s appointment would uplift the Igbo Muslim community and promote unity within the broader Nigerian Muslim population.
The statement read, “We the South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON), extend our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Ilyasu Usman on your recent appointment as an Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja.
By Gloria Ikibah
As part of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the House of Representatives is set to lead a historic march on Monday, November 25, 2024, in a bold effort to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) in the country.
The march, which begins at 8:00 AM, will see over 1,000 participants, including lawmakers and members of the public walk from the National Assembly to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja. The event will culminate in the submission of a petition to the Inspector General of Police, demanding decisive action against GBV and greater protection for vulnerable groups.
Speaking about the initiative, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD., GCON, said, “This march and the activities that follow are not mere gestures but a reflection of our determination to confront gender-based violence head-on. We are committed to building a society where justice, equality, and safety prevail for all Nigerians.”
In a statement by the House Spokesperson, Rep. Akin Rotimi on Saturday in Abuja, he said, “The 10th House of Representatives has reaffirmed its commitment to systemic reforms, collaboration, and accountability in the fight against gender-based violence.
“In addition to the march, the House has outlined key activities in alignment with its Legislative Agenda (2023–2027) to sustain awareness and action throughout the campaign period.
“Sash Demonstration Ceremony – Tuesday, November 26, 2024
“Convergence of State Assembly Speakers – Monday, December 9, 2024. A strategic meeting at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, will bring together Speakers of State Houses of Assembly to discuss legislative measures for combating GBV nationwide.
“National Citizens’ Summit and GBV Conference 2024 – Tuesday, December 10, 2024. The summit will focus on constitutional reforms and securing endorsements for gender equality initiatives led by the House of Representatives”.
Naijablitznews.com reports that this year’s 16 Days of Activism aims to galvanise nationwide efforts and inspire collective action to protect human rights, ensure justice, and create a safer, more equitable Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu has departed Galeao Air force Basa (SBGL) Airport, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday, for Abuja after attending the 19th G20 Leaders Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The President is due to arrive at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 10.00 p.m. (Nigerian time).
President Tinubu had attended the G20 Leaders summit where he endorsed the global alliance against hunger and poverty, which he said was pivotal.
The President also held bilateral talks with Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), who commended his administration’s economic reforms and their positive indicators.
He also presided over the signing of a 2.5 billion dollar Letter of Intent between the Nigerian government and the JBS S.A., a Brazilian company and one of the top three largest meat processing companies in the World.
The president was accompanied in the trip by senior government officials including the minister of foreign affairs yusuf Tuggar, the national security adviser, Nuhu RIBADU and many others.
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