Prof. Iliyasu Usman has been appointed as the first Igbo Muslim Imam of the Abuja National Mosque, a move celebrated by the Muslim community, especially the South East Muslim Organisation of Nigeria (SEMON).

His inaugural khutbah will take place during today’s Jumm’at prayer, marking a significant milestone in Islamic leadership. SEMON praised Prof. Usman’s dedication to scholarship and emphasized that his appointment reflects both personal achievement and a divine responsibility to lead the community in worship.

The group also noted the inclusiveness of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs under the Sultan of Sokoto. The appointment aims to uplift the Igbo Muslim community and foster unity within Nigeria’s diverse Muslim population.

Prof. Usman will join Imams Ibrahim Makari and Muhammad Kabir in leading prayers, especially as Sheikh Ahmad Onilewura is currently on sick leave. SEMON’s statement expressed hopes for Prof. Usman’s leadership to inspire peace and piety among the Ummah.