By: Erewunmi Peace

The Sokoto State Government has initiated a new policy to bolster Islamic propagation and religious education by introducing monthly allowances for Imams, their deputies, and Mu’azzins, along with cash allocations to Jumu’at mosques. The announcement was made by Governor Ahmed Aliyu during a Qur’an memorisation graduation ceremony.

What’s Included in the Initiative

Monthly stipends for religious leaders, including Imams, their deputies, and Mu’azzins — designed to support them in effectively carrying out their duties.

Cash allocations to Jumu’at mosques, ranging from ₦300,000 to ₦500,000 per month, depending on each mosque’s category.

Governor Aliyu unveiled the initiative at the graduation of 111 Qur’an memorizers from the Sokoto branch of the Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi Foundation. He emphasized that this measure aligns with his “Nine-Point Smart Agenda,” placing Islamic affairs second only to security.

The goal, according to the governor, is to encourage Qur’anic memorisation among children and nurture a generation rooted in Islamic values and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Broader Impact and Symbolism

Leaders present at the event—including the Sultan of Sokoto, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, and others—praised the foundation’s work and the government’s support for Islamic education. The Sultan commended Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi for his efforts, while Yari contributed ₦22 million in donations and food items to support the graduates and the institution.