Katsina: Followers of the Tijaniyya Islamic Sect from 15 countries across West and North Africa are set to gather in Katsina for the 40th Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass Maulud. The Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Sheikh Muhammad Hadi-Balarabe, disclosed this at a news briefing in Katsina.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event, organized by the national body of ‘Majma’u Ahbab Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass’, is themed ‘Life of Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass, His Works and Contributions to Islam’. It is scheduled for January 17 and is expected to host approximately 4 million attendees from 15 countries. This will mark the third time Katsina is hosting the National Maulud of Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass, with previous events held in 2002 and 2016.
Hadi-Balarabe highlighted that the event aims to commemorate the contributions of Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass, who was born in 1900 in Senegal and passed away in 1975. Sheikh Nyass is renowned for his devotion to the Holy Prophet Muhammad and his significant contributions to the Islamic religion.
The chairman noted that the event will include various activities starting a week prior, such as paper presentations by prominent scholars on Sheikh Nyass’s life and works. Committees have been set up to ensure a successful gathering, with security agencies involved to maintain order.
Significant aspects of the event include the display of Sheikh Nyass’s scholarly works, fostering unity among Muslims, and boosting local business activities. Hadi-Balarabe urged the people of Katsina to welcome the visitors warmly and contribute to the event’s success.
He also mentioned that a Friday ‘Zikr’ will be conducted at various mosques, and a special prayer for national peace and prosperity will be offered following the main event.