By Umar Idris Shuaibu, Kano
The immediate past National Chairman of the APC and Chairman of the Board of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, on Friday commissioned a newly constructed mosque and Islamiyya school in Bachirawa Quarters, Ungogo Local Government Area of Kano State.
The project, executed under the Ganduje Foundation, was built in honour of the late Hajiya Asiya Muhammad, mother of Professor Hafsat Ganduje, and is described as a sadaqatul jariya aimed at promoting Islamic knowledge and community development.
Speaking at the commissioning, Dr. Ganduje said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to advance Islamic propagation and strengthen social infrastructure across communities.
He noted that similar projects have been undertaken in different parts of the country, including the construction of mosques and Islamiyya schools to enhance religious education.
The former governor further disclosed that additional projects are ongoing, including the construction of a modern mosque in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, which will feature facilities such as radio and television stations for Islamic teachings, an Imam’s residence, separate sections for male and female worshippers, as well as commercial components to ensure sustainability.
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He added that another mosque project is currently underway near his residence in Miyangu, reiterating his commitment to expanding access to Islamic knowledge and community services.
Dr. Ganduje also explained that the foundation continues to promote Islamic teachings peacefully, including supporting individuals who willingly embrace Islam, while fostering unity and mutual understanding within society.
In his remarks, Malam Usamatu Salga, Special Adviser to the Kano State Governor, who represented Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, conveyed the state government’s appreciation for the initiative.
He stated that the project aligns with ongoing efforts to promote peaceful coexistence and sustainable development, urging residents to maintain harmony for continued progress.
Meanwhile, the 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, commended the Ganduje Foundation for its consistent contributions to Islamic development, noting that such interventions have positively impacted not only Kano State but other parts of the country.
Similarly, the Senator representing Kano South, Sulaiman Abdurrahman Kawu Sumaila, called on well-meaning individuals to emulate the gesture, stressing that investments in religious and educational infrastructure remain vital for societal growth and unity.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Council of Ulama, Sheikh Ibrahim Khalil, emphasised the importance of using the mosque as a platform for promoting unity among Muslims through sound teachings and responsible leadership.
Earlier, Malam Abba Koki, who represented the National Chairman of Jama’atul Izalatul Bid’a Wa’Ikamatus Sunnah (JIBWIS), urged the mosque’s leadership to uphold the core values of Islamic teachings and ensure proper guidance for the community.
In his acceptance speech, the Chief Imam of the mosque, Sheikh Lawan Shuaibu Abubakar, expressed appreciation to Dr. Ganduje for the gesture, noting that the former governor has followed in the footsteps of Ahmadu Bello by combining Islamic propagation with public service.
He offered prayers for Dr. Ganduje’s continued good health and called for unity and peaceful coexistence among members of the community.
The mosque and Islamiyya school comprise 16 classrooms dedicated to Islamic studies, providing a structured environment for religious learning and community engagement.
Dr. Ganduje also used the occasion to offer prayers for the late Murtala Ramat Muhammad, marking 50 years since his assassination on February 13, 1976, and reiterating the need for leaders to uphold values of integrity and national service.