By Gloria Ikibah
The Speaker, House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, and Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, were among the key figures who witnessed the groundbreaking ceremony for the reconstruction of the Mallam AbdulKarim Historical Mosque in Zaria on Sunday.
The Mallam AbdulKarim Historical Mosque was originally constructed in 1836, but tragically collapsed during prayers on August 11, 2023, resulting in the loss of six lives and injuries to others.
In his address, Speaker Abbas, who also holds the title of Iyan Zazzau, emphasised the historical and cultural importance of the mosque, describing the event as a moment of great significance for the Zazzau Emirate and beyond.
“Today is a historic day. For the second time in 183 years, Zaria is witnessing the groundbreaking of a mosque meant to serve the Muslim Ummah of the Zazzau Emirate,” he said.
He highlighted the legacy of Zazzau’s leadership since 1804 under the Sokoto Caliphate and underscored the symbolic importance of the project to the region’s history and identity.
The Speaker noted that the reconstruction, expected to take 18 months, would result in a mosque that could potentially be one of the largest in Northern Nigeria and West Africa. However, he called for increased financial support, revealing that the funds raised so far could only cover about 50-60% of the project’s total cost.
“I appeal to well-meaning Nigerians, particularly the affluent among us, to donate generously so this project can be completed in record time,” he urged.
Governor Sani also commended the swift response from donors, singling out individuals like Abdulsamad Rabiu and Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal for their contributions.
He stressed the significance of the mosque as a monument of faith and culture, and called for more support from the public to complete the reconstruction.
“The overwhelming response is a testament to the value placed on this great landmark and the role of religion in our personal and national lives,” he said.
The Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Bamali, also expressing gratitude to key contributors such as former Vice President Namadi Sambo and former Governor Nasir El-Rufai, who led the technical and fundraising committees, respectively.
The Emir lauded Governor Sani’s efforts in supporting victims of the mosque collapse and ensuring progress on the reconstruction.
Reflecting on the decision to demolish the remnants of the ancient structure, the Emir acknowledged it was a painful but necessary step to prioritize safety. He affirmed that the new mosque would honor the emirate’s rich history while incorporating modern advancements.
“This mosque will once again become a sanctuary for prayer and reflection, embodying the enduring legacy of Zazzau and the progress of our time,” he stated.
The event drew a large gathering of dignitaries, including the Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, former Kaduna State Governor, Ramalan Yero; and serving members of the National Assembly, among others.