Sheikh Mahi Niass, the Grand Khalifa of Sheikh Ibrahim Niass, has officially turbanned the former emir of Kano Muhammadu Sanusi II as the leader of Tijjaniya in Nigeria.
In May last year, Mr Sanusi was invited to Senegal, where he was announced as the leader of the movement in Nigeria.
Speaking after he was turbanned in Gusau during the Maulud Sheikh Ibrahim Niass on Saturday, Mr Sanusi admonished Muslims to commit themselves to God and pray for peaceful coexistence in the country.
He pledged to work tirelessly for the progress of the sect and its followers.
Mr Sanusi added that all Muslims should devote their time in absolute devotion and commitment to God, as well as pray for the country.
He pledged to collaborate with all stakeholders in propagating the ideals of the Tijjaniya sect and legacies of its leaders such as Sheikh Niass.
Earlier, Sheikh Abubakar Aliyu, who initiated the annual Sheikh Inyas Maulud in Nigeria, called on leaders to be just and provide good governance for the benefit of the people.
According to him, the difficulties Nigeria find itself today is a result of injustice, corruption and disobedience to Allah’s commandment.
Mr Aliyu therefore enjoined Nigerians to repent so that God would shower His blessings on the country.
“Only total repentance to Allah can restore peace and security in the country,” he added.
He also admonished leaders to do the right thing, protect their followers, so that they will in turn support and pray for them.
In his remarks, Zamfara Governor, Bello Matawalle, advocated for unity among Nigerian Muslims.
Mr Matawalle said the annual Maulud celebration is an avenue to Muslims across the world to gather to praise Allah and His messenger, Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
Mr Matawalle appreciated the hundreds of thousands of Tijjaniyya followers who had engaged in prayer and praising God, saying that’s what the state needs at this moment of its trials.
“I will not hesitate to grant the hosting of next year’s Maulud, if requested by the organising committee,” Mr Matawalle said.
He called on all the participants to dedicate their energy in fervent prayer for peace and unity in the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the event was attended by members of Tijjaniyya sect from across the World.
