By Adenike Lawal
In a historic move on December 11, 2024, Prof. Iliyasu Usman was appointed as the Chief Imam of the Abuja National Mosque, marking the first time an Igbo Muslim has held this prestigious position.
This appointment underscores a growing recognition of diversity within Islam in Nigeria.
Prof. Usman, a native of Enugu State, is well-known as the first Professor of Arabic in Igbo land.
Alongside him, four other Imams were appointed: Prof. Luqman Zakariyah from Osun State, Dr. Sheikh Abdulkadir Salman from Kwara State, Bar. Haroun Muhammad Eze from Enugu State, and Prof. Khalid Aliyu Abubakar from Plateau State.
This diverse group of leaders represents various regions, highlighting the breadth of Islamic leadership in Nigeria.
During his unveiling ceremony, led by Prof. Is-haq Oloyede, Secretary-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), Prof. Usman spoke about his dual commitment to his Igbo heritage and Islamic faith.
He emphasized his belief in embracing the positive aspects of Igbo culture while rejecting those elements that conflict with Islamic teachings.
Prof. Usman pointed out that every culture holds both beneficial and detrimental practices.
He referenced the historical killing of twins in Igbo culture, once seen as an abomination but now universally condemned by both Muslims and Christians.
He also highlighted the incompatibility of cultural practices involving alcohol consumption during festivals with Islamic prohibitions on intoxication.
However, Usman expressed pride in the positive cultural traits of Igbo society, particularly the strong sense of communal support and care, values that align closely with Islamic teachings.
His appointment not only represents a personal achievement but also symbolizes broader themes of inclusivity and unity within Nigeria’s religious and ethnic diversity.
It reflects the possibility of harmony between ethnic identities and religious affiliations in Nigeria, encouraging greater dialogue among various cultural groups within the Muslim community.
Prof. Iliyasu Usman’s appointment as Chief Imam at the Abuja National Mosque is a landmark moment for both the Igbo community and Nigerian Islam, exemplifying how cultural identity and faith can coexist in a meaningful and integrative way.
