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.