SHEIKH Dahiru Usman Bauchi, one of Nigeria’s most influential Islamic scholars and the supreme leader of the Tijjaniyyah Sufi order, has died at the age of 100.
News Point Nigeria reports that his passing occurred late Wednesday night, a reliable source confirmed to this newspaper, marking the end of an era for millions of followers across Nigeria and beyond.
According to the family source, details regarding his funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon.
Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi, born on June 28, 1927, in Nafada (then part of old Bauchi State, now Gombe State), dedicated more than eight decades of his life to Islamic scholarship, Qur’anic teaching, spiritual leadership, and humanitarian service.
He memorised the Qur’an at a young age under the guidance of his father, Alhaji Usman, and later studied under renowned scholars across West Africa, including the influential Sheikh Ibrahim Niass.
His reputation as a global authority in Qur’anic exegesis (tafsir) solidified over decades of teaching. Beginning in 1948, Sheikh Bauchi delivered annual tafsir sessions in Bauchi, a tradition that continued uninterrupted for 77 years.
His teachings gained nationwide reach from 1976 when Bauchi Radio began airing his tafsir, followed by Radio Nigeria Kaduna in 1980. Today, numerous radio stations across northern Nigeria broadcast his lectures, especially during the month of Ramadan.
Beyond his scholarship, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi established hundreds of Qur’anic schools, agricultural ventures and more than 1,000 housing units across northern states to provide free accommodation for students and disciples.
A towering figure in the Tijjaniyyah Sufi movement, he was widely regarded as one of the most respected Islamic scholars in Africa.
His influence extended beyond religion into peacebuilding, mediation, and advocacy—often intervening during periods of political tension or insecurity.
On July 8, 2024, he celebrated his 100th birthday according to the Islamic calendar, marking a century of profound religious impact.
The news of his passing has triggered an outpouring of grief across Nigeria’s Muslim communities, with tributes expected from political leaders, traditional rulers, and international Islamic organisations.
Funeral announcements and arrangements will be communicated by the family in the coming hours.