Over three million Muslims from across Nigeria and several African countries converged on Katsina State to commemorate the Maulud (birthday) of the late Tijjaniyya spiritual leader, Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse.
The week-long religious event was held at the Dukko Radda Stadium, Katsina, and was organised by the Majma’u Ahbab Niasse association.
It attracted prominent Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, and thousands of followers of the Tijjaniyya order from Nigeria’s 36 states and neighbouring West African nations.
Speaking at the gathering, the President of Majma’u Ahbab Niasse, Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Sani Auwal, said the 2026 celebration marked the 40th anniversary of the annual Maulud.
He explained that the event was aimed at honouring the life and teachings of Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse, while also offering prayers for peace, unity, and economic development in Katsina State, the North-West region, and Nigeria at large.
Sheikh Auwal, who also serves as Commissioner at the Kano State Ministry for Religious Affairs, noted that Katsina State was hosting the Maulud for the third time, having previously hosted in 2002 and 2016.
He added that other states such as Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi have also hosted similar commemorations in the past.
He commended the Katsina State Government for providing a peaceful and conducive environment for the event and prayed for sustained stability and harmony in the state and the country.
Addressing the gathering, the Emir of Kano, Khalifa Muhammadu Sanusi II, called for unity among Tijjaniyya adherents and the broader Muslim Ummah. He highlighted the historic role of Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse in the spread of Islam across Africa, describing him as an influential scholar whose legacy transcended national boundaries.
In his remarks, Governor of Katsina State, Dr Dikko Umaru Radda, expressed appreciation to the organisers for choosing Katsina as the host state.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting religious activities that foster peace, unity, and social cohesion, while urging continued prayers for Nigeria.
Dignitaries from Nigeria and West Africa graced the occasion, including representatives of the Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), as well as Khalifa Sheikh Mahi Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse, represented by Muhammad Qurash Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse from Senegal.
The Maulud, which commenced on Sunday and lasted seven days, concluded on Saturday with Qur’anic recitations, prayers, lectures, and conferences, all highlighting the life, teachings, and enduring legacy of the renowned Tijjaniyya leader.