The Association of Jumuat Mosques Imams of Nigeria (AJMIN) recently convened a one-day leadership seminar in Kano, titled "Leadership in Islam for National Peace and Divine Intervention". At the event, AJMIN National Chairman and Chief Imam of Sheikh Ahmadu Tijjani Jumuat Mosque, Kano, Sheikh Muhammad Nasir Adam, emphasized the need for sustained prayers to address Nigeria's security challenges. He noted that the country is in serious need of divine intervention due to the widespread violence and difficulties affecting citizens.
According to Sheikh Nasir, AJMIN usually selects a state each year to deliberate on issues affecting the country, advise themselves, and pray for peace and divine intervention. This year's selection of Kano is part of the association's efforts to sensitize its members on their responsibilities as Imams and leaders in their communities. The seminar aimed to equip Imams with the knowledge and skills necessary to guide their followers and promote peaceful coexistence.
Sheikh Nasir, who is also the Chief Imam of Sheikh Ahmadu Tijjani Jumuat Mosque, Kano, stressed that Muslims should not assume they are safe simply because insecurity has not yet affected their communities. He warned that challenges in one part of the country could eventually affect others, emphasizing the need for collective action and prayer. The association considers praying for the country part of its responsibility, rather than waiting for government or politicians to call on religious leaders.
The seminar also featured a call to Imams to distinguish between their personal opinions and Islamic teachings. Sheikh Nasir urged Imams to refrain from using their positions to promote personal ambitions, emphasizing that their role is to promote religious teachings. He encouraged Imams to be symbols of good people and to guide their followers accordingly.
Representing Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf at the event, his Special Adviser on Tsangaya Schools, Gwani Musa Hamza Falaki, acknowledged the historical leadership role of Imams in Muslim communities. He expressed the state government's respect for Islamic scholars and Imams, appreciating AJMIN for bringing the programme to Kano. The government recognizes the importance of Imams in promoting peaceful coexistence and national development.
A Kano-based cleric, Sheikh Abdullahi Uwaisu Limanci, also spoke at the event, urging Imams to understand the peculiar challenges of the communities they lead. He emphasized that Imams should be a compass in both this world and the hereafter, guiding their followers to the right path. Sheikh Limanci added that Imams should take into consideration the unique challenges of their states when educating and sensitizing their congregations on how to live peacefully.
The AJMIN seminar is part of a broader effort to promote national peace and divine intervention in Nigeria. The association, which is duly registered with the Federal Government, seeks to promote Islamic teachings and values. By emphasizing the importance of prayer and responsible leadership, AJMIN aims to contribute to a more peaceful and stable Nigeria.
Key points
- Imams in Nigeria are calling for sustained prayers to address the country's worsening security challenges.
- The Association of Jumuat Mosques Imams of Nigeria (AJMIN) organized a seminar in Kano to discuss leadership and national peace.
- Imams are urged to distinguish between personal opinions and Islamic teachings, promoting peaceful coexistence and national development.
