Muslim residents in Salamaleikum New Extension of Mando community in Afaka, under Igabi Local Government Area, have expressed satisfaction following the approval and turbaning of an Imam for a new Jumu’ah mosque.
The mosque, Ar-Rahman Academy Central Mosque, is expected to serve the spiritual needs of the community through daily congregational prayers, and Friday Jumu’ah services.
The turbaning ceremony was conducted by the Hakimi of Rigasa District, Architect Alhaji Aminu Idris, at his office.
Speaking at the event, the district head congratulated the newly turbaned Imam, Abdulrahman Tijjani, commending his success in the rigorous screening process conducted at the Emir of Zazzau’s palace in Zaria.
He noted that both the Imam and the assistant Imam, having undergone the same rigorous screening, should take turns leading prayers to prevent situations where prayers are halted in the absence of the Imam.
The Hakimi also urged the mosque committee to support the Imam in managing the mosque and to offer corrections whenever necessary.
The occasion was attended by several community’s dignitaries, including the Sariki Mando Afaka, Sariki Sani Musa Umar, Sariki Rigaasa, Mai angwar, Mai Jamaha, Yahya Ahmed Abdullahi, the Oba of Yoruba, Mathew Aina Adaraloye, the Sariki Yoruba, the Baale, Imam of Al-Athariya Mosque, Marab Academy Mashi Gwari, Zakariyah Aliyu, Sariki Hayin Mallam Bello, Alhaji Kabiru Isah Gangarida as well as other prominent members of the community.
The new Jumu’ah mosque is expected to accommodate a growing number of worshippers in Mando and surrounding areas, marking a significant milestone in the community’s development.
The mosque will hold its inaugural Jumu’ah prayer this Friday at 1pm and is anticipated to attract a large crowd of worshippers, community leaders and well-wishers.
Many residents say the facility will ease the burden of walking long distances for Friday prayers while also providing a central hub for Islamic and community activities.
By BASIRAT MEMUDU