By Ikechukwu Ezema
The Executive Chairman of Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area, Barr. UgoFedinand Ukwueze, has hailed the appointment of Prof. Iliyasu Usman Onah as the National Mosque Abuja Chief Imam representing South East/ South South geopolitical region.
Hon. Barr. UgoFerdinand Ukwueze, Executive Chairman, Igbo-Eze South LGA.
Ukwueze who is also the Vice Chairman of ALGON in the state, described the appointment as heroic considering the fact that it is the first of it’s kind.
He said that the development will go a long way to further strengthen national cohesion between the Igbo community and other nationalities in Nigeria.
The Chairman said that the good people of Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area where Prof Illiyasu Usman Onah hails from, received the news with high sense of joy and gratitude to the leadership of the Muslim faith for the honour and appointment of their son to occupy such a revered position in Allah’s vineyard.
“Prof Usman is a man of first. To his credit, he is the first Professor of Arabic in Igboland. He is again the first Igbo man to be appointed Imam of the National Mosque Abuja.
“This development is no doubt a testament to his commitment and scholarly excellence.
“He is truly an ambassador of our dear local government. We are known for excellence and we commend Prof Usman Onah for keeping our flag flying,” Ukwueze said.
While also congratulating Prof. Illiyasu Usman Onah for his dexterity in the attainment of such height in God’s vineyard, he urged him to put in his best in this prestigious assignment.
He assured Prof Usman of the local government’s support and prayers in his new endeavour adding, “Your appointment is a divine blessing to Igbo-Eze South, Enugu State, Igbo land in general and a responsibility to lead the Ummah in worship and service to Allah.
“In line with our progress agenda mantra which is in tandem with the agenda of our dear Governor, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Mbah, we anticipate your prayers as well at the national mosque for our continued success in the administration of life touching programmes and quality leadership to the good people of Enugu State,” he added.
FirstNews reports that with the appointment, Prof Usman will now support the two active Imams, Prof. Ibrahim Makari and Prof. Muhammad Kabir, in the rotational conduct of the Juma’ah and daily congregational prayers.
