Shettima, Gov. Yusuf Endorse Emir Sanusi’s Tijjaniyya Maulud Celebration in Kano
By Hassan Kano
In a show of spiritual solidarity, Vice President Kashim Shettima and Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf commended the Tijjaniyya Islamic sect for its pivotal role in promoting unity among Muslims in Nigeria. This came during the 2025 Maulud celebration in honor of the late Sheikh Ibrahim Niass, the revered spiritual leader of the Tijjaniyya sect, held at the Sani Abacha Stadium, Kano.
Speaking at the event, VP Shettima, represented by Alhaji Babagana Fannami, praised the sect’s adherence to the true teachings of Islam, which have stood firm over the past century. He acknowledged the Tijjaniyya sect’s dedication to the principles of humanity, peace, and moderation in Islam.
Shettima further emphasized the importance of emulating the Prophet Muhammad’s teachings, urging Muslims to avoid extremism and focus on unity.
According to a statement signed by Sunusi Bature Press Secretary to Governor of Kano state. The Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf said the host of the celebration, also lauded the Tijjaniyya sect for its unwavering commitment to peace and harmonious coexistence with other Islamic sects.
“We appreciate everyone who traveled far and wide to participate in this year’s Maulud in Kano to honor Sheikh Ibrahim Niass,” Yusuf stated.
However, this year’s celebration was marked by division within the Tijjaniyya sect, with two separate Maulud events taking place in Kano and Bauchi. In Kano, the celebration was led by Emir Khalifa Dr. Muhammadu Sanusi II, the national leader of the Tijjaniyya sect in Nigeria. Meanwhile, in Bauchi, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi presided over the second Maulud, accompanied by 15th Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero.
The division comes against the backdrop of an ongoing crisis within the Kano Emirates, which has raised concerns about the unity of the Tijjaniyya sect. Many believe the split is deeply rooted in political interference and the Kano Emirates crisis, marking the first significant division in the sect’s history in Nigeria.
Adding to the tension, the Kano Police Command earlier issued a security alert warning of potential threats during the Maulud celebration. However, the Kano State Government dismissed the claims as baseless, insisting the event would proceed as planned.
During the Kano Maulud, Emir Muhammadu Sanusi II prayed for the unity of Muslims worldwide and urged tolerance toward people of other faiths.
This development has sparked reactions from members of the Tijjaniyya sect and observers, with many lamenting the division and calling for a resolution to the crisis. Some have criticized the interference of politics and regional disputes in religious matters, warning that such divisions could undermine the sect’s spiritual essence.
As the crisis deepens, many are hopeful for reconciliation and a return to the unity that has long defined the Tijjaniyya sect in Nigeria.
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