Katsina: The city of Katsina is set to welcome millions of worshippers as followers of the Tijaniyya Islamic Sect from across 15 countries in West and North Africa converge for the 40th Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass Maulud.
Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Sheikh Muhammad Hadi‑Balarabe, announced the preparations at a press briefing on Wednesday, noting that the event — themed “Life of Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass, His Works and Contributions to Islam” — will take place on January 17.
According to him, more than 4 million participants are expected, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in the region. Katsina previously hosted the Maulud in 2002 and 2016, with attendance figures reaching 3 million in the latter year.
Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass, born in 1900 in Senegal and who passed away in 1975, is remembered as one of the most influential Islamic scholars of the 20th century.
Hadi‑Balarabe described him as a devoted lover of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), whose teachings and scholarship continue to inspire millions worldwide.
“For the past two decades, we don’t know any scholar who has contributed more than Sheikh Nyass,” he said, emphasizing the enduring impact of Nyass’s works on Islamic thought and practice.
The week‑long programme will feature paper presentations by prominent scholars, exhibitions of Sheikh Nyass’s scholarly works, and special Zikr (remembrance of Allah) sessions across mosques.
A special prayer for peace and prosperity in Nigeria will also be offered after the main event.
To ensure a hitch‑free gathering, multiple committees have been set up to coordinate logistics and security in collaboration with relevant agencies.
Organisers highlighted the event’s importance in strengthening unity and brotherhood among Muslims and boosting business activities in Katsina. Hadi‑Balarabe urged residents to uphold their renowned hospitality and support the success of the Maulud.
