By Muhammad Ibrahim, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government has announced its readiness to collaborate with Saudi Arabia to advance Islamic propagation. Governor Ahmed Aliyu gave this assurance during a state dinner held in honor of Dr. Nami Jarullah, a representative of the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Nigeria.
In a statement released by the Governor’s Press Secretary, Abubakar Bawa, Governor Aliyu emphasized the importance of supporting Islamic activities to foster a clearer understanding of the true teachings of Islam.
“We must work with relevant stakeholders to address the misconceptions held by non-Muslims about Islam. Islam promotes peace and condemns violence or terrorism. It encourages harmony among people, regardless of tribal or religious differences,” the governor stated.
Government’s Efforts in Islamic Propagation
Governor Aliyu highlighted his administration’s initiatives aimed at promoting Islamic values and practices. These include:
- Constructing new mosques and Islamiyya schools.
- Renovating Jum’at mosques and providing carpeting.
- Installing solar-powered systems and drilling boreholes at various mosques.
- Restoring monthly allowances for Imams, deputy Imams, and Muazzins.
- Offering food and cash assistance to Muslim scholars, vulnerable groups, orphans, and needy individuals across the state’s 23 local government areas.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to further supporting Islamic propagation efforts across Sokoto State.
Saudi Support for Islamic Education
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Dr. Jabir Sani Mai Hulla, noted that the Saudi delegation was in Sokoto to conduct a refresher course for Imams and Muazzins and to organize a Quranic competition.
The Saudi Embassy Attaché, Dr. Nami Jarullah, praised the long-standing relationship between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria, describing it as mutually beneficial and deeply rooted.
“Nigeria receives the highest number of scholarship slots offered by Saudi universities to Muslim students worldwide. Saudi Arabia remains committed to advancing Islamic propagation and Quranic recitation competitions,” Dr. Jarullah said.
Strengthening Ties
The dinner concluded with an exchange of souvenirs between Governor Aliyu and his Saudi guests, symbolizing the strengthening partnership aimed at advancing Islamic education and values.
