Muslims from 15 African countries expected as Tijaniyya followers mark 40th Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass Maulud

By Sadiq Abdulfatah

Katsina State is set to host a major Islamic gathering as followers of the Tijaniyya from across West and North Africa prepare to attend the 40th Maulud of Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass. The event is expected to draw millions of Muslims to the state.

The Chairman of the Organising Committee, Sheikh Muhammad Hadi-Balarabe, announced this during a media briefing in Katsina. He said the Maulud is being organised by the national body of Majma’u Ahbab Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass to honour the life and legacy of the renowned Islamic scholar.

According to him, the event, scheduled for January 17, will attract Muslims from about 15 countries, with an estimated attendance of over four million people. He described the gathering as one of the largest Islamic events regularly held in the region.

Sheikh Hadi-Balarabe noted that this will be the third time Katsina is hosting the national Maulud, after previous editions in 2002 and 2016. He said the city was chosen again because of its strong Islamic heritage and experience in hosting large religious gatherings.

The Maulud is themed “Life of Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass, His Works and Contributions to Islam” and is aimed at educating Muslims about the scholar’s role in spreading Islamic knowledge and strengthening faith across Africa and beyond.

Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass, who was born in Senegal in 1900 and died in 1975, was widely respected for his deep love for the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his strict adherence to Islamic teachings. Organisers say these qualities earned him lasting respect among Tijaniyya followers worldwide.

Activities for the Maulud will begin one week before the main event and will include lectures and paper presentations by prominent Islamic scholars. Special committees have also been set up to work with security agencies to ensure a peaceful and well-organised programme.

Beyond religious observance, the organisers said the Maulud will promote unity and brotherhood among Muslims, showcase the scholarly works of Sheikh Nyass, and boost economic activities in Katsina. The programme will conclude with special prayers for peace, unity, and prosperity in Nigeria.

Source: NAN