Opinion
Salat: The Distinction Between Muslim And Non-Muslim

By Imam Murtadha Gusau
In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful

All praise be to Allah and peace be upon the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him). I bear witness that there is no god but Allah alone who has no partner, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His Servant and Messenger.
Dear brothers and sisters, know that Islam dignified Salat (Prayer) and raised its status as the greatest pillar of Islam after the Kalimatush Shahadah (Testimony of Faith). Ibn Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (Peace be upon him) said:
“Islam is based on (the following) five (principles): 1. To testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger. 2. To perform the (compulsory congregational) Salat dutifully and perfectly. 3. To pay Zakah (i.e. obligatory charity). 4. To perform Hajj. (i.e. Pilgrimage to Makkah) 5. To observe fast during the month of Ramadan.” [Bukhari and Muslim]
Dear servants of Allah, Salat (Prayer) is the major form of worship that a Muslim offers five times a day regularly. It is an obligation upon a Muslim and a Muslim is to offer no excuse when it comes to offering Salat. The offering of Salat in addition to representing the submission of Muslims to their Lord also has other benefits as well which are highly cherished by every Muslim.
The establishment of Salat is one of the major topics upon which Qur’an has emphasised more than anything else. In the Noble Qur’an Allah Almighty has stressed upon Muslims to learn to offer Salat regularly and with mentions of offering Salat Allah has also mentioned its benefits with it as well.
Although there is no constraint upon a Muslim on how to invoke Allah Almighty, however, Salat (prayer) is the preferred means of doing so as when a person worships Allah he or she develops a connection with Allah and any invocation within that or after that connection is bound to be accepted by Allah more compared to invocation done in any other circumstance. In the Noble Qur’an, Allah Almighty says:
“O you who have believed, seek help through patience and Salat (prayer). Indeed, Allah is with the patient.” [Qur’an, 2:153]
Therefore, a Muslim must use Salats (prayers) as a means of invocation and ask Allah Almighty for help and assistance in any difficulty or worry.
Piety (Taqwah) or righteousness is the prime objective which a Muslim has to achieve in this life. All the instructions, constraints, freedom, rights and education provided by Islam are with the objective that a Muslim becomes pious and moves on the righteous path. In this regard, Salat (prayer) has a great role to play as it promotes Taqwah or piety in the follower. In the Noble Qur’an, Allah Almighty says:
“This is the Book in which there is no doubt, a guidance for those who have Taqwah: who believe in the unseen, and who establish Salat, and spend out of what we have provided for them.” [Qur’an, 2:2-3]
Therefore, in addition to giving charity and believing in the unseen, a Muslim must also establish Salat in order to move towards Taqwah (piety).
Every deed, whether good or bad that a Muslim undertakes in this life, he or she will have to be answerable for it in the afterlife. Although all the deeds get rewarded in the afterlife, however, the actual reward of Salat will truly be realised in the afterlife when Allah Almighty will shower special blessings on that person. In the Noble Qur’an, Allah Almighty says:
“Indeed, those who believe and do righteous deeds and establish Salat (prayer) and give Zakah will have their reward with their Lord, and there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve.” [Qur’an, 2:277]
Therefore, Salat (prayer) is not something that ends in this world, rather the real reward of it will come to surface in the afterlife.
Muslims who realise that Allah Almighty is their Lord and the Giver of everything, they try to develop a relation with Him and wish to stay connected with Him as much as possible so that their relation grows strong. Salat (prayer) can effectively help in achieving so, as Allah says in Qur’an:
“And when you have completed the Salat (prayer), remember Allah standing, sitting, or [lying] on your sides. But when you become secure, re-establish [regular] prayer. Indeed, prayer has been decreed upon the believers a decree of specified times.” [Qur’an, 4:103]
Therefore, performing Salats (prayers) is a means of developing a connection with Allah Almighty and when a Muslim does so five times a day, then the consequent relationship is to naturally grow strong.
Respected Muslim brothers and sisters, shaitan (satan) is an open enemy of believers and all what he tries is to make people go stray from the path of righteousness and go down in the path of oblivion and darkness. Shaitan (Satan) tries to tempt a person in all the possible ways and when a person once listens to him, he gradually lures him or her down further into the pit of darkness. Therefore, seeking protection from shaitan (satan) is also imperative for a Muslim. In the Noble Qur’an Allah Almighty says:
“Shaitan (Satan) only wants to cause between you animosity and hatred through intoxicants and gambling and to avert you from the remembrance of Allah and from prayer. So will you not desist?” [Qur’an, 5:91]
Therefore, not offering prayer is actually falling into the prey of shaitan (satan), whereas those who try to offer and establish prayer are actually resisting his temptation and when these temptations are resisted for long the result is one not falling prey to shaitan (satan) ever again on any forefront.
In life, a Muslim gets exposed to all sorts of environments and people, all of which have a direct impact on the personality of the person. There is no denying the fact that the current plight of the people of the world is miserable where they are more prone towards ills and lewdness compared to goodness, thus if a Muslim starts being like other people, he or she goes down the road of darkness. Thus, in order to prevent one’s self from all the lewdness that is common in the world of today, a Muslim must find refuge in Salat (prayer) as it will help in combating lewdness, as Allah Almighty says in the Noble Qur’an:
“Recite, [O Muhammad], what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish Salat (prayer). Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows that which you do.” [Qur’an, 29:45]
Therefore, a Muslim must consider Salat (prayer) as an effective weapon when it comes to fighting lewdness and evils of all sorts.
Respected brothers and sisters, Salat (prayer) is an act of worship. It is not a custom. It is not a ritual. It is very special. It has no equal. It has no alternative. There are no excuses, even when you are ill, on a journey or even in a war.
Salat (prayer) is the second and most important pillar of Islam. Salat is a practical sign of obedience to the commands of Allah Almighty. It is the practical proof of our faith (Iman) in Allah and Islam.
Salat is the only distinction between a Muslim and a non-Muslim. Salat reminds you of Allah Almighty, when you get up in the morning, it reminds you three more times when you are busy during the day, and once again before you go to bed.
Salat (prayer) is a direct contact or link between the worshipper and Allah Almighty with no earthly intermediaries. It is the Mi’raj of a believer.
Salat builds a strong defense against evils which exist around us. It is said in the Noble Qur’an that, surely, Salat keeps you away from indecency and evil. This is why the prayer is described as “remembrance” to Allah Almighty.
Salat (prayer) wipes out our sins. Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) once asked his companions: “Tell me if there was a river at the door step of one of you in which you washed 5 times a day would any of your dirt remain?” When he received the reply that none of it would remain he then said “That is like the 5 times Salat, with which Allah Almighty wipes out sins.
Salat (prayer) was the last will of the Prophet (Peace be upon him). As his soul departed he said with his last breaths: As-Salah, As-Salah (Prayer, Prayer).
Salat is the first thing that a person is judged by on the Day of Judgement. If it was good, the rest of all his deeds will be good. But if it was poor, the rest of all his deeds will be poor.
This narration sets a clear declaration as to how we will be judged on the Day of Judgement. We are given a clear message: [get your Salat in good order, and it will take care of the rest… Lose your Salat, and you are in big trouble]; Very simple message, but very powerful, and very direct.
That is how important Salat (prayer) is. It was the first command in Islam, it was the last will of the Prophet (Peace be upon him), and it is the first act that we will be judged by on the Day of Judgement. Therefore, we need to know why it is so important, and how can we uplift our prayers and make our Salat in the manner that will give us the reward in this life and in the hereafter.
The knots “in the rope of Islam” will be undone one by one. Every time a knot is undone, people will adhere strongly to the next. (By undone, we understand that people no longer act by this aspect of Islam). The first knot to be undone is living by the law of Islam, and the last to be undone is Salat. What we take from this Hadith, is that when a Muslim community gives up Salat, it will be the last act in giving up their Islam. We have seen this happening across the world and across the generations. This is also why we see that when a Muslim community wants to hold on to Islam, and wants to be recognised as faithful, people make that extra effort to return to Salat.
In this society, we can look at Salat in Islam as our last line of defence. We hold on to it, we preserve ourselves as Muslims, and Allah willing, we preserve our children and their children and so on, as Muslims. If we lose Salat, Allah forbid, we lose everything, in this life and in the hereafter. That is truly a disaster.
This is what the Noble Qur’an says about those communities who gave up their Salat:
“[But after them there followed future generations who lost the Salats (prayers) and followed after lusts. Soon, then, will they face destruction].” [Qur’an, 19: 59]
The following are just a few more verses from the Noble Qur’an to cast away any further doubts about the rule of establishing Salat in Islam. Allah Almighty says:
“[And establish regular prayer and give Zakah and obey the Messenger, that you may receive mercy].” [Qur’an, 24: 56]
“[And be steadfast in prayer; give Zakah and bow down your heads with those who bow down ‘in worship].” [Qur’an, 2: 43]
“[They are those who, if We establish them in the land, establish regular prayer and give Zakah, enjoin the right and forbid the wrong. With Allah rests the end (and decision) of (all) affairs].” [Qur’an, 22: 41]
Dear brothers and sisters, there should be no doubt in our minds and hearts about the need to establish regular Salats (prayers). It is vital for our present community, and it is vital for our future generations.
We cannot instil in our children the need to establish regular prayers if we do not act as an example. We cannot understate this point. We have to act as an example to our children. We are asked to encourage our children by age seven, and we are asked to enforce prayers by age ten. There is no doubt as to what the instructions are. We are responsible for our children. We may feel happy that we have been able to establish regular prayers ourselves, and that we have preserved Islam in our community for this generation, but what about the next, and what about the one after. There is no room for leniency here, and we need to be very vigilant. Indeed, there is a Hadith that states that between the person and Kufr (wilfully renouncing Allah) is abandoning Salat (prayer) on purpose. This was narrated by Muslim and by Ahmad, and it is also agreed by the Sahabah (Prophet’s Companions).
Respected servants of Allah, Islam encourages the Congregational prayers (Jama’ah prayers). In an agreed Hadith, the Prophet (Peace be upon him) states that the Jama’ah prayers (Congregational prayers) is worth 27 times the prayers of a person by himself. There is always more reward when we pray together.
In another Hadith, the Prophet (Peace be upon him) states that the prayer of the man in Jama’ah is worth 25 times his prayers alone. When he performs good ablution, and leaves his house for the sole purpose of prayers, with every step he takes his status is uplifted, and a sin is forgiven. As he prays, the angels will continue praying for him, saying, Allah bless him and Allah forgive him, until he finishes his Salat. This is the reward for establishing Congregational prayers (Jama’ah prayers).
In another Hadith, the Prophet (Peace be upon him) mentions that if three Muslims are present in a community, they need to establish Jama’ah prayers, or shaitan (satan) will get to them, as we are weakened by being separate, and strengthened by the Jama’ah.
In fact, establishing Congregational prayers (Jama’ah prayers) is a definite Sunnah, to the extent that we are informed in another Hadith, that if we leave the Jama’ah prayers, we are actually abandoning an established Sunnah of the Prophet (Peace be upon him).
The Prophet (Peace be upon him) said who ever attends the Mosque and returns, Allah prepares for him paradise on every occasion he attends and leaves. The Prophet (Peace be upon him) also says when you witness a person that regularly attends to the Mosque for prayers it is a testimony of his faith (Iman). Allah Almighty says:
“[The Mosques of Allah shall be visited and maintained by those who believe in Allah and the Last day, and establish regular prayer].” [Qur’an, 9: 18]
The Prophet (Peace be upon him) said; Shall I guide you to what wipes away the sins and lifts up your status.
The Mosque is the home of every pious person. Allah will look after this person with mercy and guides him along the straight path to paradise.
Dear brothers and sisters, we all know that Salat (prayer) is compulsory, but even with this pillar there are important issues that we need to address.
The most important for us, for the community in anywhere, is that we should encourage ourselves to attend the Mosque for Jama’ah prayers more and more. Not just the Juma’ah prayers, but for most Jama’ah prayers if we can.
There is a great reward when Salat is offered in Jama’ah.
Salat gives us both Worldly and Spiritual benefits. In the congregation, rich and poor, high and low, all stand shoulder to shoulder. It is the best scene of mankind’s equality.
In this Salat all have one intention (Niyyah), one language and identical actions. All kneel together, all go to Sajdah together.
This teaches us the lesson that we, as Muslims, should be united at all times.
People meet with one another in the Congregational prayer (Jama’ah Salah). They know the hardships and worries of one another and try to help each other. New things are known there. Mutual love develops. Circle of friendship is widened. We get an opportunity to perfect our life in the light of others experiences.
While offering Salat in Jama’ah we stand in rows, follow the Imam of Jama’ah and practice obedience to Allah, this forces discipline in us, which is the essential feature of a community’s life.
Our Mosques remain thriving – due to Salat in Jama’ah. It enhances the prestige of Muslims, and the Unity of Muslims affects greatly the enemies.
Allah has put a big reward for Congregational prayer (Jama’ah Salah). Our beloved Prophet (Peace be upon him) has laid great emphasis on Jama’ah Salah.
Therefore we should offer Jama’ah Salah as often as possible. We should also know that if there are more than 10 people in Jama’ah, then nobody can estimate its limitless reward except Allah.
My last point is that we must all strive to maintain and protect our Mosque, for it is this establishment that will hopefully look after our children and their children. Please invest in the Mosque, both financially and with your efforts. This is where our community starts, and this is where we maintain our faith (Iman).
In a nutshell, those who learn and read Qur’an on regular basis are familiar with the importance of Salat (prayer) and how strongly has Allah Almighty emphasised on it and explained its importance to the people in the Noble Qur’an. A Muslim must realise that above anything, Salat is an obligation and every Muslim has to fulfill his or her obligation.
Lastly, I ask Allah, the Most High to grant us success and enable us to be correct in what we say and write.
All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of all creation; may Allah extol the mention of our noble Prophet Muhammad in the highest company of Angels, bless him and give him peace and security―and his family, his Companions and all those who follow him correctly and sincerely until the establishment of the Hour.
Murtadha Muhammad Gusau is the Chief Imam of Nagazi-Uvete Jumu’ah and the late Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Okene’s Mosques, Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria. He can be reached via: gusauimam@gmail.com or +2348038289761.
This Jumu’ah Khutbah (Friday sermon) was prepared for delivery today, Friday, Shawwal 29, 1444 AH (May 19, 2023)

Opinion
Kwankwaso: The Northern Titan Tinubu Needs for 2027

By: Lamara Garba Azare
In the vast theatre of Nigerian politics, where loyalties shift like desert winds and alliances are often built on the fragile sands of expediency, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso remains a paradoxical figure—grounded yet mobile, underestimated yet ever-looming, regional yet national. His name echoes from the narrow alleys of Kano to the polished corridors of Abuja. And in the current recalibration of the political landscape, his relevance is not just intact—it is ascending.

As 2027 casts its early shadow on the horizon, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must begin to examine not only who stands beside him today, but who can help him conquer tomorrow. Among all the northern actors, one name rings with both history and hope: Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso—engineer, former governor, former minister, presidential contender, and above all, a man of the people.
Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso’s political journey began long before the return to civilian rule in 1999. He was first elected into the Federal House of Representatives in 1992 under the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), during the short-lived Third Republic. Representing the Madobi Federal Constituency, he quickly rose to prominence and was elected Deputy Speaker of the House—a rare feat for a first-time legislator and a reflection of his charisma, competence, and political acumen even at a young age. Though the republic was cut short by the military, Kwankwaso’s early emergence laid the foundation for what would become a long, impactful political career spanning over three decades.
Kwankwaso vs. Ganduje: A Tale of Unequal Titans
The recent ouster of Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje as APC National Chairman has stripped the ruling party of a man who was less a unifying figure and more a lightning rod for controversy. In truth, Ganduje’s political shadow was always smaller than his ambition. Since 2015, when he inherited Kano’s leadership from his former mentor, Ganduje spent more time fighting ghosts than building legacy.
In both the 2019 and 2023 elections, Ganduje’s electoral strength was tested—and found wanting. In 2019, he scraped through a victory marred by violence and a controversial rerun. By 2023, he had lost the state completely to Kwankwaso’s New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP). It was a stunning reversal. The man he had once served as deputy and later sought to diminish had not only returned, but reclaimed Kano’s soul.
This contrast cannot be overstated. Where Ganduje represented self-preservation, Kwankwaso represents a movement. Where Ganduje lacked charisma and moral clarity, Kwankwaso commanded loyalty through ideas, sacrifice, and an unbroken connection to the grassroots.
The red cap of Kwankwasiyya is not just cloth; it is a statement of ideology, a badge of discipline, and a symbol of service.
And now, with Ganduje’s shadow gone, the political space is slowly being recalibrated. Even among top APC power brokers, quiet conversations are beginning to emerge—conversations that whisper one name, not in opposition, but in strategic admiration: Kwankwaso.
A Northern Giant in the National Equation
Since 1999, no political personality in Northern Nigeria has maintained relevance, respect, and regional command like Kwankwaso. From the days of the Fourth Republic, where he served as Governor under the PDP, to his time as Minister of Defence and later as a senator, Kwankwaso has always been a force unto himself—untamed, unbought, and unbowed.
When he returned to the PDP in 2018, he was met not with a red carpet but with resistance. The fight over the Northwest Zonal Chairmanship—particularly the betrayal by Senator Bello Hayatu Gwarzo and Governor Aminu Tambuwal—was a painful reminder that in Nigerian politics, past glory is no shield from present conspiracies.
Yet from those ashes, Kwankwaso rose again—this time on his own terms. The NNPP, a party once dismissed as fringe, became his new political cathedral. And in 2023, it delivered a seismic political upset, reclaiming Kano and sending shockwaves through the APC and PDP alike.
Tinubu and Kwankwaso: Twin Architects of Modern Nigerian Politics
There is a poetic symmetry between Tinubu and Kwankwaso, though they emerged from different regions. Both are engineers—Tinubu, a political one; Kwankwaso, a literal one. Both began their political ascent in 1999. Both shaped their regions with a mix of discipline, policy, and populist appeal. Both have been godfathers and gladiators, builders and reformers, thinkers and fighters.
In the South-West, Tinubu built Lagos into a political stronghold, produced governors, and designed strategies that eventually toppled a 16-year-old PDP rule. In the North, Kwankwaso built a grassroots machine so formidable that no governor after him has been able to ignore it—not even his archrival Ganduje, whose administration was haunted by Kwankwaso’s legacy.
In a country still divided by ethnic fault lines and regional calculations, these two men represent the possibility of a fusion: one that cuts across the Niger, speaks to the heart of the average Nigerian, and brings political pragmatism back into fashion.
There is a growing feeling among some political elders that it may be time these two architects sit on the same drawing board. For those close to the corridors of power, making this happen will be no small task—but then again, game-changing alliances never come cheap.
Why Kwankwaso Is Tinubu’s Best Bet for 2027
As 2027 approaches, Tinubu’s path to re-election will not be paved with incumbency alone. He will need:
– A revived North-West,
– A pacified North-Central,
– And a North-East that feels seen and heard.
In this matrix, Kwankwaso is the bridge—the man who can bring youth, clerics, civil servants, and market women to the same political altar.
He has unrivaled grassroots loyalty, a message that resonates with the poor, and an image unmarred by corruption scandals. His political scars are from battles fought—not deals made. He is respected even by his enemies.
Moreover, the presence of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, a protégé whose leadership in Kano has been widely praised for its focus on education, healthcare, and accountability, provides further moral weight to Kwankwaso’s image. This isn’t a godfather lording over a puppet—it’s a mentor standing beside a capable successor.
Convincing Kwankwaso to align will not be easy. It will demand humility from those who once opposed him, and boldness from those who truly seek to renew the party’s northern fortunes. Yet, this is the kind of herculean task that separates transactional politics from visionary strategy.
The Coalition Mirage vs. APC Reality
Some have urged Kwankwaso to pursue a new coalition of smaller parties to mount an alternative challenge in 2027. But Nigeria’s electoral mathematics makes that route perilous. Fragmented structures, uneven financing, and conflicting egos have always doomed such efforts.
By contrast, a well-negotiated return to the APC—now rid of Ganduje’s hostility—offers Kwankwaso a platform with:
– National presence,
– Executive access,
– And a chance to shape policy from within.
But more importantly, it would allow him to broker a new northern alliance within the party—one that reflects competence, not cronies.
And Tinubu, ever the strategist, knows the value of strong allies over loyal placeholders. He doesn’t need praise-singers. He needs doers. In Kwankwaso, he will find not just a partner but a peer.
A New Political Sunrise
Nigeria stands at a crossroads. The disillusionment of the electorate is deep. Hunger is rising, hope is thinning. What the country needs is not just a leader, but a renewal of trust in leadership.
Kwankwaso represents that possibility for the North—just as Tinubu once did for the South-West. Together, they can reshape the national discourse, refocus the agenda on development, youth empowerment, and infrastructure, and return Nigerian politics to a place of purpose, not just performance.
Final Words: The Red Cap and the Lion
In the imagery of politics, Kwankwaso’s red cap and Tinubu’s lion emblem are more than symbols. They are signals of identity, strength, and resilience. Together, they could represent a political renaissance.
The North, tired of transactional politics and hollow leadership, is again looking for a voice. And in this moment, there is none louder, clearer, or more credible than that of Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
In the theatre of destiny, moments arise that demand bold choices, unlikely alliances, and visionary partnerships. The path to 2027 is not lit by certainty, but by courage. For President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, there can be no greater show of foresight than extending his hand—not to flatterers, but to fellow builders. And for Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the time is ripe not just to return—but to rise.
Let the red cap meet the lion. Let North and South speak in one voice. Let the cynics scoff, but let the patriots act. For in the fusion of legacy and legitimacy, of structure and service, of purpose and power—Nigeria may yet witness a new dawn.
The crowd is watching. The moment is calling. And history, ever impatient, is ready to be written again. Whispers have already begun. Some knocks may soon reach his door. The question is not whether he’s needed—but whether he will answer.
Let the winds of 2027 begin to blow. Let history take its course. And let two of Nigeria’s most enduring architects of democracy forge a path not just to power—but to progress.
Lamara Garba Azare, a political analyst, writes from Kano.

Opinion
Northern Nigeria’s Crossroads to Renewal

By Adamu S Ladan
In a recent thought-provoking piece, a Professor from the Southeast, Benard Ifeanyi Odoh painted a compelling picture of the widening economic gulf between Nigeria’s Southeast and Southwest.
He rightly argued that the Southwest has harnessed structured education, global exposure, and strategic investments to emerge as an economic powerhouse, while the Southeast, though industrious, risks economic stagnation due to over-reliance on trade and remittances.
But perhaps the most sobering implication of Odoh’s argument lies not in the regional comparison he drew—but in what it says about Northern Nigeria, which stands even further behind in the country’s economic race.

Northern Nigeria, by all measures, should be an economic force. It is blessed with the largest landmass, vast agricultural potential, a youthful population, and a deep-rooted culture of enterprise. Its cities once bustled with trade, its farms fed the nation, and its influence extended beyond Nigeria’s borders. But today, that legacy is in tatters.
The region leads the country not in innovation or investment, but in poverty, illiteracy, malnutrition, and insecurity. These conditions are no longer abstract statistics—they are the lived reality of millions. While Lagos churns out tech unicorns and the Southeast thrives in commerce, much of the North struggles to sustain basic education, access healthcare, or protect its own farmers.
Perhaps one asked, what went wrong? Some blame external forces—colonial neglect, national policy biases, or international conspiracies. But these explanations, while not entirely unfounded, ignore a more painful truth: the North was failed from within.
The post-independence elite, handed a rich inheritance by visionary leaders like Sir Ahmadu Bello. But the generations that followed them betrayed this legacy by failing to protect or build upon it.
Thus, public service gave way to patronage. Education took a backseat to political expediency. And generations of young Northerners were left behind—poor, unskilled, and angry. Today, many are recruited into banditry and extremism not out of ideology but desperation.
Therefore, Professor Odoh’s critique of the Southeast as a region rich in talent but trapped in outdated economic models is hauntingly more relevant to the North. If the Southeast risks becoming irrelevant in a digital global economy, then the North risks becoming economically obsolete and socially unstable. And while the Southeast still thrives on trade, diaspora links, and cultural exports, the North is rapidly losing even its traditional economic base.
Then, one may asked what should we do? Reclaiming the North’s future as a way forward, will require more than political promises or cosmetic interventions. It demands a Marshall Plan for the North—bold, strategic, and uncompromising. And this is a task that the two regional development authorities (Northeast and Northwest Development Commissions) must undertake.
To drive this transformation focus must be made on five urgent pillars:
• Education Revolution – Mass, inclusive and quality education. No nation thrives with half its population uneducated.
• Security and Stability – Without peace, development is impossible. Community-based security and rehabilitation of displaced people must be prioritized.
• Agro-Industrial Development – The North must not just farm; it must process, brand, and export.
• Tech and Innovation Hubs – Cities like Kaduna, Kano, and Jos should become digital job centers, attracting venture capital and building startups.
• Leadership by Merit – The region must prioritize competent, visionary leadership—leaders who invest in people, not power.
On a final note one may respond to Professor Odoh submission that, if the Southeast is at a crossroads, Northern Nigeria stands at a precipice. The choice is however ours if we like we can continue on the region’s current path—dependent, destabilized, and disillusioned—or we strive to rise.
Nonetheless, the region still holds immense promise, but it must be earned through deliberate effort and transformative governance.
As Professor Odoh noted, “Those who control the future do not wait for it—they build it.” The North must now choose to build. Not tomorrow. Now.
May Almighty Allah be with us.
Adamu S Ladan is a veteran journalist, this was first published on his Facebook account.

Opinion
Eid And Friday Sermon: Eid Al-Adha Celebrations And What To Do If Coincides With Jumu’ah

By Imam Murtadha Gusau
In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
All perfect praise be to Allah the Lord of the Worlds. May His peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) and upon all his family and companions. To proceed:
Dear brothers and sisters! Eid al-Adha or the Feast of Sacrifice is the second and the largest of the two main holidays celebrated in Islam, the other being Eid al-Fitr. This significant occasion honours the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice one of his sons, either Isma’il or Ishaq, as an act of obedience to Allah’s command. It is a time of deep spiritual reflection, communal prayers, and acts of charity. Eid al-Adha holds immense cultural and religious significance for Muslims around the world.
According to Islamic tradition, the story of Eid al-Adha dates back to the life of Prophet Ibrahim. One of the main trials of Prophet Ibrahim’s life was to receive and obey the command of Allah to slaughter his beloved son. Prophet Ibrahim had recurring dreams where he saw himself sacrificing his son Isma’il, and he recognised this as a divine command. He shared his dream with his son, who obediently responded:

“Father, do what you are ordered to do.”
Prophet Ibrahim prepared to fulfill Allah’s will and sacrifice his son as an act of unwavering faith and obedience. However, just as Prophet Ibrahim was about to carry out the sacrifice, Allah intervened and replaced Isma’il with a ram. This divine intervention demonstrated Allah’s mercy and provision, acknowledging Ibrahim’s commitment and sparing his son’s life. Muslims commemorate this event during Eid al-Adha by sacrificing animals and distributing the meat among their families, the needy, and the less fortunate.
Eid al-Adha follows the Islamic lunar calendar and falls on the tenth day of Dhul-Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic year. The celebration lasts for four days and involves various religious and social customs. Families gather for communal prayers at Mosques, where they seek blessings, forgiveness, and spiritual rejuvenation. These prayers are led by an Imam, Shaykh or Malam and emphasise the importance of unity, compassion, and gratitude.
An essential aspect of Eid al-Adha is the act of Udhiyyah, which refers to the ritual sacrifice of an animal, often a goat, sheep, cow, or camel. The sacrifice symbolises Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son and his ultimate submission to Allah’s command. Muslims who can afford it perform Udhiyyah, and the meat is divided into three parts: one for the family, one for relatives and friends, and one for the less fortunate.
Apart from religious practices, Eid al-Adha is a time of joyous celebrations and vibrant festivities. Families come together to share meals, exchange gifts, and engage in acts of charity. It is a time to strengthen bonds, reconcile differences, and extend goodwill to all. Many Muslims also use this occasion to embark on journeys of pilgrimage to the noble city of Makkah, fulfilling one of the Five Pillars of Islam known as Hajj.
Eid al-Adha is celebrated by Muslims across the globe, transcending geographical boundaries and cultural diversity. While the core rituals remain the same, the festivities showcase the unique traditions and customs of each region. In countries with significant Muslim populations, such as Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Nigeria, etc, the celebrations are particularly grand and elaborate.
The atmosphere during Eid al-Adha is filled with joy and a sense of community. Streets are adorned with colourful decorations, and markets bustle with shoppers purchasing new clothes, sweets, and gifts. Traditional dishes and delicacies are prepared, and families open their homes to welcome guests and share meals. The exchange of greetings and well wishes is a common practice, spreading love and harmony among individuals.
The pronunciation of Eid al-Adha may vary based on regional accents and languages. It is also commonly pronounced as Eid al-Azha and Eidul Azha, especially in regions influenced by the Persian language like the Indian subcontinent. The Arabic pronunciation is Eid Al-Adha.
The term “Eid” itself is derived from the Arabic word عيد (ʿid), which signifies a festival, celebration, feast day, or holiday. The term has its roots in the triliteral root عيد, which carries meanings of “to go back, to rescind, to accrue, to be accustomed, habits, to repeat, to be experienced; appointed time or place, anniversary, feast day.” The holiday is known as عيد الأضحى (Eid al-Adha) or العيد الكبير (Eid al-Kabir) in Arabic, with the words أضحى (adha) and قربان (qurban) being synonymous in meaning, representing sacrifice, offering, or oblation.
Eid al-Adha is a significant Islamic festival that commemorates the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim to Allah’s command. It serves as a reminder of the importance of faith, sacrifice, and compassion in the lives of Muslims. The observance of Eid al-Adha involves prayers, acts of charity, and the sharing of joyous moments with family, friends, and the less fortunate.
During this festive season, Muslims express their gratitude for the blessings received and recommit themselves to the principles of unity, generosity, and love. The timeless story of Prophet Ibrahim and his son serves as an enduring symbol of faith, resilience, and the boundless mercy of Allah. As Muslims gather to celebrate Eid al-Adha, they embrace the values of sacrifice and selflessness, fostering a sense of harmony and goodwill within their communities.
Respected brothers and sisters! There are always questions whenever Eid occurs on a Friday, and I would like to clarify whether it is obligatory to pray both Eid Prayer in the morning and Jumu’ah in the afternoon.
First of all, we should remember that both occasions are among the most important Islamic symbols. Attending both prayers and congregations are very virtuous. The mindset of the person should be to be eager to attend both prayers, as this is part of glorifying the symbols of Allah. Allah Almighty says:
“And whoever honours the symbols of Allah – indeed, it is from the piety of hearts.” [Qur’an, 22:32]
That is why most of the scholars including Hanafiyyah and Malikiyyah consider attending both of them as obligatory.
The Shafi’iyyah school of thought gave an excuse only for those who live away from the city where the Jumu’ah is established, not to attend the Jumu’ah once they have attended the Eid Prayer. The reason is due to the difficulty they are likely to encounter in coming back to attend the Jumu’ah Prayer.
These scholars say that attending Jumu’ah is obligatory (wajib) by consensus, as Allah Almighty says:
“O you who have believed, when [the Azan] is called for the prayer on the day of Jumu’ah [Friday], then proceed to the remembrance of Allah and leave trade. That is better for you, if you only knew.” [Qur’an, 62:9]
The scholars have said that lifting this confirmed obligation needs further evidence of the same level and most of the evidences that are presented are not strong enough to waiver this obligation.
Furthermore, al-Nu’man Ibn Bashir narrated that:
“The Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) used to recite: ‘Glorify the Name of your Lord, the Most High’ and ‘Has there come to you the narration of The Overwhelming?’, on Friday and on Eid, and when Friday and Eid converged, he would recite them both.” [Muslim]
This incident also happened during the time of Uthman Ibn Affan, as it is reported in the Sahihul Bukhari and the Muwatta of Malik that Abu Ubaid, the freed slave of Ibn Azhar, said:
“I was present on the occasion of two Eids (together) with Uthman Ibn Affan; that was on a Friday. He offered the (Eid) prayer before the sermon (khutbah), then delivered the sermon (khutbah) and said, ‘O people, on this day two Eids have come to you together, so whoever wants to wait for Jumu‘ah with the people of al-Awali, let him do so, and whoever wants to go back, then I gave him permission to do so.’”
However, the official opinion of the Hanbaliyyah school of thought is that attending one of the two prayers is sufficient.
They support their view with numerous evidences such as:
1. The Hadith of Zaid Ibn Arqam (RA), according to which Mu‘awiyah Ibn Abi Sufyan (RA) asked him:
“Did you ever witness with the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) two Eids that happened on the same day?” He said, “Yes.” Mu‘awiyah Ibn Abi Sufyan asked, “What did he do?” Zaid Ibn Arqam replied, “He (Peace be upon him) offered the Eid prayer, then he granted a concession allowing people to miss Jumu‘ah prayer, and he said: ‘Whoever wishes to pray (Jumu‘ah), let him do so.’” [It is narrated by Ahmad, Abu Dawud, al-Nasa’i, Ibn Majah, al-Darimi, and by al-Hakim in al-Mustadrak, where he said, “This Hadith has Sahih isnads, even though they [Bukhari and Muslim] did not narrate it, and it has a corroborating report according to the conditions of Muslim. And al-Dhahabi agreed with him.”
Imam al-Nawawi said in his book al-Majmu‘, “Its isnad is jayyid.”
2. The corroborating evidence mentioned above is the Hadith of Abu Hurairah (RA), according to which the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) said:
“Two Eids have come together on this day of yours, so whoever wishes, it [the Eid prayer] will suffice for Jumu‘ah, but we will pray Jumu‘ah.” [Narrated by al-Hakim as stated above; also narrated by Abu Dawud, Ibn Majah, Ibn al-Jarud, al-Baihaqi and others]
3. The Hadith of Ibn Umar (RA) who said:
“Two Eids came together at the time of the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him). He led the people in (the Eid) prayer, then he said, ‘Whoever wishes to come to Jumu‘ah may come, and whoever wishes not to do so may stay away.’” [Narrated by Ibn Majah]
It was also narrated by al-Tabarani in al-Mu‘jam al-Kabir as follows:
“Two Eids came together at the time of the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him): Eid al-Fitr and Jumu‘ah. The Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) led them in the Eid prayer, then he turned to face them and said, ‘O people, you have attained goodness and reward, but we are going to pray Jumu‘ah; whoever wishes to pray Jumu‘ah may do so, and whoever wishes to go back, may go back.’”
4. The Hadith of Ibn Abbas (RA), according to which the Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) said:
“Two Eids have come together on this day of yours, so whoever wishes, it [the Eid prayer] will suffice for Jumu‘ah, but we will pray Jumu‘ah, In Shaa Allah.” [Narrated by Ibn Majah]
The discussion between the scholars cannot be concluded at this time and hence I advise Muslims for the following:
1. It is without a shadow of a doubt that attending both prayers is safer and far better than missing one of them.
2. Whoever has not attended the Eid prayer for whatever reason while he should have attended it is not included in that concession granted by some scholars. And hence he must attend Jumu‘ah prayer.
3. The Imam of the Jumu‘ah Mosque must hold Jumu‘ah prayers and this is confirmed even by those scholars who do not believe that it is obligatory to attend both.
4. Whoever lives at a distance from the Mosque and needs to travel a long journey to attend the Eid prayer and it is very difficult for him to stay to attend the Jumu’ah prayer may have the concession allowing him not to attend Jumu‘ah. However, he must pray it as Zuhr after the time for Zuhr begins.
5. The view that whoever attends the Eid prayer has a concession waiving both Jumu‘ah and Zuhr prayer on that day is an incorrect view. Therefore, it is rejected by the scholars and they have deemed it to be mistaken and odd, because it is contrary to the Sunnah and suggests that one of the obligatory duties enjoined by Allah, may He be glorified and exalted, is to be waived with no evidence to that effect. Perhaps the Sunnahs and reports about this issue – which grant a concession allowing the one who attended the Eid prayer not to attend Jumu‘ah, but state that he must still pray Zuhr – did not reach the one who said that.
I ask Allah by His beautiful Names and lofty Attributes that He bring Eid upon us once again and that our condition in that time be better than our condition in the previous instance, and that He accept our deeds from us and from all the Muslims.
So, as we honour the traditions and teachings of Eid al-Adha, let us reflect upon the virtues it embodies and strive to emulate them in our daily lives. May this auspicious occasion bring peace, unity, progress, joy, happiness, and blessings to all those who observe it. Ameen.
Dear brothers and sisters! Today we have only a day to Eid-ul-Adha. Please support the orphans with your sadaqah, help them with your donations and assist them with your Zakat so that they celebrate Eid-ul-Adha happily.
For those respected brothers and sisters who want to donate to orphans, to Islamic projects and activities FISABILILLAH, those who want to send their Sadaqah and Zakat, here are the bank account details:
1. Account number: 0048647196.
– Account name: Murtala Muhammed.
– GTBank
Or:
2. Account number: 1779691620
– Account name: Murtala Muhammed.
– Access Bank.
Allah Almighty says:
“Verily, Allah will help those who help His cause. Truly, Allah is All-Strong, All-Mighty.” [Qur’an]
Jazakumullah Khairan as you kindly assit, help, donate and contribute to the cause of Allah, the cause of Islam.
May Allah Almighty accept your sacrifices, amplify your intentions, and bless you, your families with peace and barakah.
All praise is due to Allah, the Lord of the worlds. Prayers, peace and mercy are upon our beloved master, Muhammad, the son of Abdullah (Peace be upon him), his family and Companions.
Murtadha Muhammad Gusau is the Chief Imam of Nagazi-Uvete Jumu’ah and the late Alhaji Abdur-Rahman Okene’s Mosques, Okene, Kogi State, Nigeria. He can be reached via: gusauimam@gmail.com or +2348038289761.
This Jumu’ah Khutbah (Friday sermon) was prepared for delivery today, Friday, Dhul-Hijjah 10, 1446 AH (June 06, 2025).
