Professor Iliyasu Usman, a distinguished scholar of Arabic and Islamic studies, has been appointed as the first Imam of the National Mosque in Abuja from Enugu, South-East of Nigeria. This historic appointment, announced by the South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON) on Friday, has been met with widespread celebration. SEMON, in its congratulatory statement, praised Professor Usman for his lifelong commitment to Islamic teachings and his tireless efforts in bridging religious and regional divides.
Hailing from Enugu State, where the Muslim population is a minority, Professor Usman’s journey to becoming one of Nigeria’s most respected Islamic scholars has been marked by both challenges and triumphs. From a young age, he showed a deep interest in Islamic studies, an unusual path in a region where Christianity is more prevalent. Despite this, his thirst for knowledge and commitment to his faith pushed him to pursue Islamic education at a young age.
Professor Usman began his studies at local Islamic institutions before moving on to more advanced studies, earning accolades for his proficiency in the Arabic language and Islamic jurisprudence. His academic journey took him across Nigeria and beyond, where he studied at renowned Islamic universities, ultimately earning the title of professor. His expertise and publications in the field of Islamic studies have earned him invitations to serve as a guest speaker and senior personnel at several high-profile Islamic events, both within Nigeria and internationally.
Notable among these events was his invitation to the World Islamic Scholars Conference, where he represented Nigeria and delivered lectures on Islamic jurisprudence and interfaith harmony. His ability to articulate the needs and challenges of Muslims from minority regions like the South-East has made him a respected voice in the Islamic world. He has also been a keynote speaker at various Islamic summits, including the Abuja National Islamic Conference, where he addressed issues of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
Professor Usman has also held leadership roles within Nigeria’s Islamic community, particularly in the South-East. In Enugu, he has been a guiding figure for the Muslim population, providing religious leadership and educational support. His work in promoting religious tolerance between Christians and Muslims in Enugu has been lauded by community leaders, earning him widespread respect beyond the Muslim community.
SEMON emphasized that Professor Usman’s appointment is not just a personal achievement but a “divine responsibility” to guide Nigeria’s Muslim community in worship and service to Allah. As Imam of the National Mosque, he will lead prayers, offer religious guidance, and foster unity among the country’s diverse Muslim population. His appointment is particularly significant as it marks a departure from the historical pattern of appointing Imams from Nigeria’s northern region, where the majority of Muslims reside.
Professor Usman’s rise to this prestigious position underscores the growing recognition of the contributions of Muslims from Nigeria’s South-East region. SEMON noted that his appointment is a milestone for the South-East Muslim community and reflects the progress made by Muslims in minority regions in terms of religious scholarship and leadership.
His leadership in the National Mosque is expected to bring a new perspective to the role, one that emphasizes inclusivity, tolerance, and unity. His journey, from being a young scholar in Enugu State to becoming the first South-Eastern Imam of the National Mosque, serves as an inspiration for Muslims across Nigeria, particularly those from minority regions, who see in him a role model of faith, resilience, and dedication.
Professor Usman’s story is not only a reflection of his personal achievements but also of the broader progress of the Muslim community in the South-East. His leadership will not only strengthen the bonds between Muslims from different regions of Nigeria but also showcase the inclusive nature of Islamic leadership in the country.
As Professor Iliyasu Usman takes on this new role, he carries with him the hopes and prayers of Muslims from Enugu State and beyond, who look forward to the positive impact his leadership will bring to the National Mosque and the entire nation. His appointment marks a turning point in Nigeria’s religious landscape, one that celebrates diversity, scholarship, and faith.
