Gov. Aliyu Orders Upgrade of Religious Sites, Inclusion of New Islamiyya School Staff in State Payroll

Gov. Aliyu Orders Upgrade of Religious Sites, Inclusion of New Islamiyya School Staff in State Payroll

From Muhammad Gazali Garba

Sokoto State Governor, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu, has directed the Ministry for Religious Affairs and other relevant agencies to collaborate with the Federal Government to upgrade historic religious sites in Wurno, Gwadabawa, and the revered Hubbaren Shehu, with a view to transforming them into national and state tourist attractions capable of attracting visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.

The Governor said the initiative is aimed at preserving the state’s rich religious heritage while promoting tourism and economic development.

Governor Aliyu also instructed the Ministry for Religious Affairs to ensure that staff of the newly constructed Islamiyya school are properly documented and included in the state payroll, stressing that staff welfare and job security are essential to improving the quality of Islamic education in the state.

He made these remarks during the commissioning of the remodeled Malam Aliyu Muhammad Bunza Jumu’at Mosque and the inauguration of the Islamiyya school. 

The mosque was officially inaugurated by Sheikh Aminu Wali Ayub Zuru.

According to the Governor, the mosque is among several Jumu’at mosques reconstructed and remodeled by his administration as part of its commitment to strengthening religious institutions.

“Our administration is committed to creating environments that nurture faith, learning, and moral excellence. 

The remodeling of this mosque and the construction of this Islamiyya school reflect our belief that education and worship are twin pillars of a prosperous and harmonious society,” he said.

Governor Aliyu further emphasised the need for host communities to actively participate in the maintenance and proper utilisation of religious facilities.

“It is not enough to build or remodel these institutions; we must ensure they are maintained, respected, and fully utilised for worship, learning, and community development,” he added.

On tourism and heritage preservation, the Governor noted that Sokoto State’s rich Islamic history and cultural heritage should be strategically harnessed to attract visitors.

“By collaborating with the Federal Government to upgrade historic sites in Wurno, Gwadabawa, and the revered Hubbaren Shehu, we are creating opportunities for religious tourism, cultural exchange, and local economic growth,” he stated.

Governor Aliyu also disclosed that the government would soon engage relevant stakeholders to address concerns over extravagant marriage ceremonies in the state, emphasising the need to promote modesty in matrimonial celebrations in line with religious and cultural values.

He called on all stakeholders—including religious leaders, scholars, and community members—to support the government’s initiatives and ensure that the projects serve their intended purposes.

“Our vision is a Sokoto where faith, learning, and culture coexist in harmony, and where our historic and religious landmarks are preserved, respected, and celebrated,” the Governor concluded.

Speaking at the event, the State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Professor Jabir Sani Maihulla, described the commissioning as a timely intervention that would enhance both worship and learning.

He underscored the importance of well-equipped mosques and Islamiyya schools in guiding the faithful, instilling discipline, and nurturing morally upright, God-fearing citizens.

Also speaking, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, who represented the Sultan of Sokoto, commended the state government’s initiatives, describing the remodeling of the mosque and the construction of the Islamiyya school as acts of sadaqah jariyah that would continue to benefit generations.

He urged the community to safeguard the facilities and utilise them to promote peace, tolerance, and adherence to core Islamic values.

The event attracted Islamic scholars from across the region, government officials, political leaders, and other dignitaries.