GORONYO COMMISSIONS ISA MAI KWARE JUMU’AT MOSQUE, AS GOVERNOR AHMED ALIYU HIGHLIGHTS RELIGIOUS INFRASTRUCTURE DRIVE

GORONYO COMMISSIONS ISA MAI KWARE JUMU’AT MOSQUE, AS GOVERNOR AHMED ALIYU HIGHLIGHTS RELIGIOUS INFRASTRUCTURE DRIVE

By Muhammad Gazali Garba

Governor Ahmed Aliyu of Sokoto State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening religious infrastructure as part of efforts to promote unity, moral values, and community development across the state.

The governor stated this during the commissioning of the remodelled Isa Mai Kware Jumu’at Mosque in Sokoto, noting that the project reflects his administration’s resolve to improve places of worship and support Islamic activities.

He disclosed that his government has so far commissioned 33 remodelled Jumu’at mosques across the state, with several others at various stages of completion. 

According to him, the projects cut across areas such as Kebbe, Illela, Gwadabawa, Hajiya Halima Estate, Runjin Sambo, Gada, Minanata, Usmanu Danfodiyo University Sokoto, Sultan Maccido Institute, and the historic Sheikh Usman bin Fodio Jumu’ah Mosque at Hubbare in Sokoto metropolis.

Governor Aliyu further revealed that support is currently being extended to no fewer than 90 Jumu’at mosques through monthly standing imprests ranging from ₦500,000 to ₦300,000, depending on their size and needs. He added that the gesture complements existing allowances provided to Imams, Na’ibs, and Mu’azzins in recognition of their services.

The governor also directed the Ministry of Works to prepare cost estimates for the renovation of additional mosques in Isa, Sabon Birni, Binji, Bunkari, Tangaza, as well as the Sheikh Sidi Attahiru Mosque at Ali Akilu, stressing that no community should be left without a functional place of worship.

While concluding his remarks, Governor Aliyu commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and contributions to national development, particularly in strengthening infrastructure and economic growth.

Earlier, the Minister of State for Works, Barrister Bello Muhammad Goronyo, who commissioned the mosque, described the project as a significant milestone in promoting spiritual growth, unity, and community progress.

He commended Governor Ahmed Aliyu for his dedication and commitment to transforming Sokoto State, particularly in advancing Islamic affairs and improving the welfare of the people.

“Your Excellency, I was once part of this community where this mosque is situated, so I fully understand its importance to the people,” Goronyo said.

The minister called on members of the community to take ownership of the mosque and ensure its proper maintenance to justify the government’s investment.

He also praised Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko for his continued guidance and support, describing him as a key figure in strengthening governance and development initiatives in the state.

Providing historical background, it was gathered that the mosque was originally constructed in 1975 as a cinema owned by Dikkon Gande, who had intended to convert it into a mosque before his demise.

In 2003, during the administration of Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa, the property was acquired with the support of prominent individuals, including Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko and Buhari Siriddawa, and was subsequently converted into a mosque.

Governor Aliyu noted that the structure had not undergone any major renovation since its conversion, which necessitated its remodelling to meet present standards.

In his remarks, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, urged residents to remain steadfast in observing the five daily prayers and to make effective use of the mosque.

Represented by the Wazirin Sokoto, Professor Sambo Wali Junaidu, the Sultan commended the state government for giving Islamic affairs the needed attention through the construction and renovation of mosques and Islamiyya schools.

Also speaking, the State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Dr. Jabir Sani Maihulla, described the initiative as a major step toward promoting religious values and moral discipline.

 He noted that the administration has also revived the State Hisbah Board and organised seminars for Islamic teachers to strengthen religious education.

In a welcome address, the Chairman of Sokoto North Local Government, Jamilu Umar Gosta, commended the governor for executing numerous people-oriented projects in the area, including road construction, installation of solar streetlights, and renovation of mosques and schools.

The commissioning ceremony attracted several dignitaries, including APC leader in the state, Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko; Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi; Speaker of the Sokoto State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Tukur Bala Bodinga; the State Chief Judge, Justice Muhammad Sa’idu Sifawa; and other top government officials.

The Chief Imam of Isa Mai Kware Jumu’at Mosque, Sheikh Umar Mai Littafai, later led the two raka’at Jumu’ah congregational prayer.