The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has restructured and expanded its National Executive Council (NEC) following a General Assembly meeting held in Abuja on October 1, 2026. The assembly, attended by prominent Muslim leaders, including traditional leaders and Chief Imams of Central Mosques in 36 states and the FCT, approved the renewal and expansion of the NEC. This move aims to strengthen the organization's leadership and enhance its operations.
The NSCIA, under the leadership of President General Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar and Secretary-General Ishaq Oloyede, a professor, has been the apex Islamic authority in Nigeria since its establishment in 1973. The organization's primary objective is to cater for, preserve, protect, promote, and advance the interests of Islam and Muslims throughout the country. With its headquarters at the Abuja National Mosque Office Complex, the NSCIA plays a crucial role in coordinating Islamic affairs in Nigeria.
The expanded NEC includes new appointments, such as Prof. Mahfouz Adedimeji as Deputy Secretary-General (National), Prof. Salisu Shehu as Deputy Secretary-General (International), and Mr Abeny Mohammed (SAN) as Deputy Secretary-General (Corporate). Other appointments include Dr Bala Muhammad as Deputy Secretary-General (Administration), Dr Umar Jibrilu Gwandu as Public Relations Officer (PRO), and Hajia Sekinat Lawal as Deputy Public Relations Officer (DPRO).
The NSCIA's General Assembly meeting, which approved the new appointments, was attended by prominent Muslim leaders from across the country. The organization's leadership, including President General Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar and Secretary-General Ishaq Oloyede, is expected to work closely with the newly appointed NEC members to achieve the organization's objectives.
The NSCIA has been recognized by the Nigerian Federal and State Governments as the official body coordinating Islamic affairs in Nigeria. With its expanded NEC, the organization is poised to strengthen its role in promoting Islamic unity and advancing the interests of Muslims in the country. The new appointments are expected to bring fresh perspectives and expertise to the organization.
According to Abbas Jimoh, the NSCIA's public affairs officer, the General Assembly meeting provided a platform for Muslim leaders to discuss issues affecting the Islamic community in Nigeria. The meeting's outcome, including the expansion of the NEC, is expected to have a positive impact on the organization's operations and its ability to serve the Muslim community.
The NSCIA's expansion of its NEC is a significant development in the organization's history, and it is expected to enhance its effectiveness in promoting Islamic unity and advancing the interests of Muslims in Nigeria. The organization's leadership and newly appointed NEC members will play a crucial role in achieving these objectives.
Key points
- The NSCIA has expanded its National Executive Council with new appointments, including Prof. Mahfouz Adedimeji and Prof. Salisu Shehu as Deputy Secretary-Generals.
- The organization's leadership, including President General Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar and Secretary-General Ishaq Oloyede, will work closely with the newly appointed NEC members.
- The NSCIA plays a crucial role in coordinating Islamic affairs in Nigeria and has been recognized by the Nigerian Federal and State Governments as the official body.
