Chronicling Governor Nasir Idris’ commitment to religious development in Kebbi State

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By El-Yakub Dabai, Birnin Kebbi

Religion plays a fundamental role in the lives of the people of Kebbi State, serving as a guiding force and a source of moral discipline. Recognizing this, Gov. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has made a myriad of significant strides in promoting religious harmony, supporting religious leaders, and enhancing the places of worship since assuming office in 2023.

One of his administration’s landmark achievements was the establishment of the Ministry for Religious Affairs, the first of its kind in the history of Kebbi State. This Ministry ensures a structured approach to religious activities and prioritizes the welfare of religious leaders, including Imams and an array of other clerics.

To effectively manage the Ministry, Gov. Idris appointed a Commissioner, a Permanent Secretary, and two Special Advisers, one for Islamic Affairs and the other for Christian Affairs.

The appointment of an SA on Christian Affairs underscores the Governor’s commitment to religious tolerance and inclusivity in a state where Muslims make up 99 per cent of the population.

Promoting Religious Discipline and Social Welfare:

To further foster societal discipline and curb social vices, the Zakat and Hisbah Boards were inaugurated under the Governor’s directive.

In addition, the state government, in partnership with the Nana’s Foundation of the wife of the Governor, Hajiya Nafisa Nasir Idris, had organized a mass wedding for 300 less-privileged couples. The government provided ₦54 million in dowries (₦180,000 per couple) and furnished each home with essential items. The initiative also included medical screening to prevent hereditary diseases like sickle cell anemia, promoting healthier marriages.

Kauran Gwandu Mosques’ Project :

Gov. Idris’ dedication to religious infrastructure is evident in the Kauran Gwandu Mosques Project 2025, which involves the renovation of 130 Mosques across the 21 local government areas of the state.

For example, in Birnin Kebbi, four Jumuat Mosques, the Central Mosque, Jokolo Mosque, the Emir’s Palace Mosque, and the Sheikh Abbas Jega Rafin Atiku Jumu’a Mosque, had been refurbished. Religious leaders across the state have expressed gratitude for these efforts, acknowledging the Governor’s unwavering commitment to maintaining the sanctity of all places of worship.

Religious scholars, Sheikhs and Imams of various Mosques, have expressed immense appreciation to Gov Nasir Idris for his piety and dedication to preserving the sanctity of places of worship by approving the massive renovation of Mosques throughout Kebbi State.

In Birnin Kebbi, Mallam Muhammad Tukur Kola, a founding elder of the Sheikh Abbas Jega Jumu’at Mosque at Rafin Atiku, who represented Sheikh Muhammad Abbas Jega, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his foresight and devotion to religious matters.

In Argungu Emirate, Islamic leaders such as Sheikh Bello Umar Izala (Jos), Isa Umar Tungar Sule, and Liman Muhammadu Nura Tungar Sule, all lauded the Governor’s rehabilitation project.

In Zuru Emirate, Imam Muhammad Maidoki Zuru, Aliyu Abubakar, and Sarkin Malamai Musa Abdullahi Balarabe Zuru, all conveyed their thanks to the Governor.

In Yauri Emirate, religious leaders praised the Mosque renovation project as timely, coinciding with the Holy month of Ramadan—a period when the Muslims devote a significant portion of their time in Mosques. The Imam of Saminaka Jumu’a Mosque, Malam Adamu Saminaka, and Malam Mahmud Ngaski, Secretary of Jama’atu Izalatul Bid’ah (Jos branch), also expressed profound joy over this development.

Ramadan Support and Historic Hajj Airlift :

Gov. Idris had also demonstrated unparalleled generosity through the Ramadan palliatives, distributing 200 trucks of assorted food items to the residents, including civil servants, local government staff, security personnel, traditional rulers, and persons with disabilities.

Perhaps one of the most historic milestones of his administration was the first-ever airlift of Kebbi pilgrims to Saudi Arabia from the Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport, Birnin Kebbi in 2024. The event was graced by Vice President Sen. Kashim Shettima and the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar.

Kebbi State later received three awards from Saudi Arabia for its efficient Hajj airlift, excellent feeding arrangements, and the peaceful conduct of pilgrims. Furthermore, Gov. Idris provided a ₦1 million subsidy for each of Kebbi’s 3,344 pilgrims, easing the financial burden caused by the unexpected hike in Hajj fares.

Recognition by the Sultan of Sokoto :

In recognition of his remarkable contributions to religious development, Gov Nasir Idris was conferred with the prestigious title of Gwarzón Daular Usmaniyya by the Sultan of Sokoto, marking him as the first recipient of the honour in Nigeria’s history.

Through these initiatives, Gov Idris had reinforced his administration’s commitment to religious harmony, social welfare, and the well-being of the people of Kebbi State. His unwavering support for religious institutions continues to foster unity, peace, and progress across the state.