The Sokoto State Government has announced its commitment to partnering with Saudi Arabia to promote Islamic teachings and values. This assurance was given by Governor Ahmed Aliyu during a dinner held in honor of Dr. Nami Jarullah, a representative from the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Nigeria.
Re-establishment of Hisbah Corps
In addition to fostering international collaboration, Governor Aliyu also inaugurated the reinstated Hisbah Corps and commissioned its state headquarters. He emphasized that the Corps must operate within its legal framework to avoid infringing on citizens’ rights. “Respect for fundamental human rights and adherence to the law are paramount,” the governor reminded members of the Corps.
The governor clarified that Hisbah is intended to complement conventional security agencies by maintaining moral standards and supporting societal peace, not replacing existing structures. He added that Hisbah is empowered by law to make arrests and hand suspects over to the police for prosecution in Shari’a courts.
To support the Corps’ operations, the state has provided vehicles, motorcycles, and a functional office, with plans to extend resources to local government branches soon.
Focus on Islamic Propagation
Governor Aliyu highlighted the importance of promoting the true teachings of Islam to dispel misconceptions held by non-Muslims. He stated, “Islam is a religion of peace that opposes violence and terrorism. It encourages harmony among people of all backgrounds.”
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Since assuming office, the administration has prioritized projects that enhance Islamic practices across the state. These initiatives include constructing new mosques and Islamiyya schools, renovating Juma’at mosques, providing solar-powered systems, and drilling boreholes at mosques. The monthly allowances for Imams, deputy Imams, and Muazzins have also been reinstated, alongside food and financial aid for scholars, vulnerable individuals, orphans, and the needy across the state’s 23 local government areas.
Strengthening Educational and Spiritual Initiatives
Speaking on behalf of the administration, the State Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Dr. Jabir Sani Mai Hulla, noted ongoing efforts to enhance Islamic knowledge. A refresher course for Imams and Muazzins was recently conducted, coupled with a Quranic competition to deepen understanding and appreciation of Islamic principles.
Dr. Nami Jarullah praised Nigeria’s longstanding relationship with Saudi Arabia, which he described as mutually beneficial. He highlighted Saudi Arabia’s commitment to Islamic propagation and its robust support for Muslim students worldwide, including offering the highest number of scholarships to Nigerian students to study in Saudi universities.
Strengthening Sokoto’s Islamic Identity
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to promoting Islamic values across the state, urging community support for the Hisbah Corps and related initiatives. “Together, we can uphold societal morals and ensure Sokoto remains a model of Islamic harmony and progress,” he said.
The dinner concluded with an exchange of souvenirs between the governor and the Saudi Arabian envoy, symbolizing the deepening ties between Sokoto State and Saudi Arabia in their shared mission to foster Islamic education and understanding.
