Muslim News Nigeria and the Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria, MMPN, Lagos State Chapter, have extended congratulations to Dr. Umar Jibrilu Gwandu and Hajia Sekinah Lawal on their recent appointments. Gwandu has been appointed as the Public Relations Officer, while Lawal takes on the role of Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, NSCIA. The appointments were announced following the NSCIA's General Assembly in Abuja on October 1, 2026.
Publisher of Muslim News Nigeria, Rasheed Abubakar, expressed his congratulations to Dr. Gwandu, describing him as a media practitioner, communication expert, and academic. Abubakar noted that Gwandu's professional experience in journalism, strategic communication, public relations, and public service makes him suitable for his new role. He commended Gwandu's contributions to Muslim News Nigeria, particularly in editorial guidance and professional advice.
Dr. Gwandu's appointment is expected to strengthen communication between the NSCIA, the Muslim community, the media, and the wider Nigerian public. With his experience as Special Assistant on Media and Public Relations to former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, Gwandu is well-equipped to manage the Council's public communication. His international public relations experience, including his role at the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC, also adds to his qualifications.
Muslim News Nigeria and MMPN Lagos also congratulated Hajia Sekinah Lawal on her appointment as Deputy Public Relations Officer of the NSCIA. MMPN Lagos State Chapter Chairman, Dr. Kabir Alabi Garba, praised Lawal's professionalism, dedication, and contributions to journalism and public communication. He expressed confidence that her experience and commitment to ethical journalism would be valuable in her new role.
Lawal's appointment is seen as an opportunity to strengthen public engagement and promote better understanding of the Council's activities, programs, and positions on issues affecting the Muslim Ummah. Her experience in media practice and professional leadership is expected to contribute meaningfully to the discharge of her responsibilities within the NSCIA. MMPN Lagos urged her to sustain the values of professionalism, integrity, inclusiveness, and responsible communication.
Both Muslim News Nigeria and MMPN Lagos State Chapter prayed that Almighty Allah would grant Gwandu and Lawal wisdom, strength, and guidance in their respective assignments. They expressed optimism that the appointees would contribute meaningfully to the growth of the NSCIA and the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria. The congratulatory statements were signed separately on Saturday, October 3, 2026.
The appointments of Gwandu and Lawal are part of the expanded leadership structure of the NSCIA, announced after its General Assembly in Abuja. The Muslim community looks forward to their contributions to promoting unity, mutual understanding, and constructive engagement between the NSCIA, the Muslim community, and the wider Nigerian society.
Key points
- Muslim News Nigeria and MMPN Lagos congratulate Dr. Umar Jibrilu Gwandu and Hajia Sekinah Lawal on their NSCIA appointments.
- Gwandu's experience in journalism, strategic communication, and public relations makes him suitable for his new role.
- Lawal's appointment is expected to strengthen public engagement and promote better understanding of the NSCIA's activities.
