From Muhammad Gazali Garba
The Governor of Sokoto State, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, has directed the construction of an Islamiya school within the premises of the newly Commissioned Sheikh Buhari Sirridawa Jumu’at Mosque, located at Gidan Bawan Allah along Gidan Dare Road in Sokoto metropolis.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Governor Ahmed Aliyu said the establishment of the Islamiya school within the mosque premises would further strengthen Islamic education and provide children and young people with access to both religious knowledge and moral upbringing.
He noted that integrating educational facilities within places of worship would help instill discipline, sound values, and spiritual development among the younger generation.
The governor also directed the construction of interlocking paving within the mosque premises to improve accessibility and enhance the environment for worshippers. In addition, he approved the inclusion of the mosque in the state government’s monthly support scheme for mosques across Sokoto State.
Providing a brief history of the project, Governor Aliyu explained that the land on which the mosque was built had been owned by Alhaji Yahaya Buhari for over twenty years and was originally intended for commercial purposes. However, following the passing of his father, he converted the property into a mosque project in honour of the late Sheikh Buhari Sirridawa.
The governor called on wealthy individuals and philanthropists to support similar religious and community development initiatives, stressing that such efforts are essential to strengthening faith, unity, and social development.
Governor Ahmed Aliyu also used the opportunity to commend Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko for his valuable advice and continuous support to government policies and programmes. He prayed to Almighty Allah to reward him abundantly and grant him continued blessings.
The mosque, built by Alhaji Yahaya Buhari in memory of his late father, Sheikh Buhari Sirridawa, the Sarkin Malaman Sokoto, was established to promote Islamic education and community development.
In his remarks, Alhaji Yahaya Buhari said the mosque was constructed as an act of charity in honour of his late father, expressing hope that it would serve as a continuous source of reward for him. He also expressed appreciation to the Sokoto State Government for its support toward the successful completion of the project.
The Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Associate Professor Jabir Sani Maihulla, commended the initiative, describing it as a significant contribution to the promotion of Islamic education and moral development in the state. He also praised the government’s commitment to supporting religious infrastructure and encouraged continued investment in faith-based education.
The representative of the Sultan of Sokoto and Wazirin Sokoto, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, also commended the project, describing it as a noble act of charity and a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit the community. He prayed for Allah’s reward upon the late Sheikh Buhari Sirridawa and for continued peace and progress in Sokoto State and Nigeria.
Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko commended the initiative, describing the mosque project as an act of faith and service to humanity. He noted that it reflects deep respect for the memory of the late Sheikh Buhari Sirridawa and a strong commitment to Islamic values. He also praised the efforts of the state government in supporting religious and community development projects, praying for divine reward for all contributors.
Senator Wamakko, after delivering a brief remark, officially commissioned and opened the mosque.
The occasion was attended by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi; the Minister of State for Works, Barrister Bello Muhammad Goronyo; the Speaker of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, Hon. Tukur Bala Bodinga; former Deputy Governor, Barrister Muktari Shagari; the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Muhammad Bello Sifawa; the Chief of Staff, Government House, Aminu Haliru Dikko; commissioners, special advisers, local government chairmen, religious leaders, and other dignitaries.
The ceremony was concluded with two raka’at Jumu’ah prayer led by the Chief Imam of the mosque.
