The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has expressed support for the decentralisation of Nigeria's police operations, backing a constitutional amendment that would enable state policing. This decision was made during the council's General Assembly, held in Abuja on October 1, 2026, and was published in a communique signed by its President-General, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, and Secretary-General, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede. The communique outlined the council's stance on various national issues.
The NSCIA emphasised the need for a comprehensive reform of Nigeria's security architecture, stressing that any reform must be anchored on professionalism, constitutional safeguards, impartiality, accountability, sustainable funding, respect for fundamental rights, and effective coordination between federal and state security institutions. The council's support for state policing is conditional upon meeting these criteria and obtaining the approval of at least 24 houses of assembly.
In addition to its stance on policing, the NSCIA urged all government agencies to respect the right of Muslim female students, corps members, female personnel in security agencies, and staff in other workplaces to use hijab as a fundamental human right. The council criticised the University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University, and University of Lagos for their opposition to a Supreme Court judgement favouring the use of hijab in their International Schools.
The NSCIA also tasked Muslims to obtain their National Identity Numbers (NINs) and Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in preparation for the 2027 elections. The council encouraged Muslims to participate fully in the process of selecting Nigerian leaders at all levels. This move aims to ensure that Muslims are actively engaged in the democratic process and that their voices are heard.
The council acknowledged the efforts of the government to stimulate the economy but urged the federal government to take urgent action to reduce the cost of transportation and food. This, the NSCIA argued, would help alleviate the hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians. The council's communique highlighted the need for the government to address the pressing concerns of citizens.
The NSCIA also adopted the 2026 report of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and endorsed its recommendations to reposition the Hajj industry in Nigeria for excellence. The meeting was attended by prominent Emirs, Obas, Chief Imams, Chiefs, Principal Officers of the Council, renowned Islamic scholars, leaders of major national Islamic organisations, and delegates from all the states of the federation and the FCT.
The NSCIA's General Assembly brought together a wide range of stakeholders from across Nigeria, including prominent Islamic leaders and scholars. The council's resolutions reflect its commitment to addressing key national issues, including security, human rights, and economic challenges. The communique serves as a guiding document for Muslims and other stakeholders in Nigeria.
Key points
- NSCIA backs state policing, provided it meets certain criteria.
- Council urges Muslims to obtain NINs and PVCs for 2027 elections.
- NSCIA criticises universities for opposing Supreme Court judgement on hijab.
