Oba Sholagberu Becomes Chief Imam of Nigeria’s National Mosque, Abuja * Saraki hails appointment
By Omowumi Omotosho
The first Malami Ubandoma of Ilorin Emirate, Sheikh Abdulkadir Oba Sholagberu, has been appointed as the Chief Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja.
Sheikh Abdulkadir is known for his vibrant and enterprising approach to Islamic scholarship. A respected academic and community leader, he seamlessly combines teaching, research, preaching, and community service, earning admiration both locally and internationally.
As the pioneer Chairman of the Kwara State Arabic Education Board, Sheikh Abdulkadir played a crucial role in advancing Islamic education in the state, an appointment he received from the immediate past Governor of Kwara State, Dr. Abdulfatah Ahmed. Additionally, he serves as the National President of the Shehu Alimi Islamic Foundation for Peace and Development, an organization dedicated to promoting Islam and fostering Ilorin’s renowned culture of peace and tolerance.
Sheikh Abdulkadir’s influence extends beyond Nigeria. He is an active and esteemed member of the World Muslim Congress in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where his contributions to global Islamic discourse are highly regarded.
Over the years, Sheikh Abdulkadir has received numerous honors and awards from prestigious institutions, including the World Muslim Congress, Al-Azhar University in Cairo, and notable Islamic organizations such as Jamaat Nasril Islam (JNI) and NASFAT. His academic contributions have also been recognized by institutions like Al-Hikmah University, the Kwara State College of Arabic and Islamic Legal Studies, and the Kwara State College of Education.
As Chief Imam of the National Mosque, Sheikh Abdulkadir is expected to continue his legacy of promoting Islamic teachings, interfaith harmony, and community development. His appointment is a testament to his enduring contributions to the growth of Islam and the values of unity and peace in Nigeria and beyond.
Meanwhile, President of the 8th Nigeria Senate Dr. Bukola Saraki has commended the appointment of Sheikh Solagberu as the Chief Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja.
Saraki described the development as a significant achievement and a source of pride for the Ilorin Emirate.
In a statement issued by his Press Officer on Local Matters, Abdulganiyu Abdulqadir, on Tuesday, Saraki praised Sheikh Solagberu for his outstanding contributions to Islamic scholarship and propagation. The former Senate President highlighted that the appointment reinforces the Ilorin Emirate’s reputation as a bastion of Islamic knowledge and leadership in Nigeria.
“The appointment of Malami Ubandoma of Ilorin Emirate, Sheikh Abdulkadir Jumuah Salman Solagberu, as the Chief Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja, is another testament to the enviable position of the Ilorin Emirate in the world of Islam,”
“This feat has again solidified your scholarly status and contribution to the propagation of Islam. Your elevation to one of the most coveted religious positions in Nigeria is not just a win for you but a pride to the Ilorin Emirate,” Saraki stated.
Saraki also prayed for divine guidance and strength for the new Chief Imam to succeed in his role. “I pray Allah to bestow you with the wisdom, strength, and support needed to thrive and take Islam to the next level,” he concluded.
