IN a significant development for the Tijjaniyyah Islamic order, Khalifa Sheikh Mahy Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse has announced several landmark resolutions aimed at fostering unity and strengthening the movement globally.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Khalifa, following extensive consultations with key stakeholders and senior scholars (Sheikhs).
The resolutions come on the heels of the recently concluded Mawlid celebrations, which witnessed global participation by Tijjaniyyah adherents. The Khalifa congratulates all Muslims for the celebrations and urged continued unity amongst Muslims and renewed dedication to the teachings of Islam.
The Key Resolutions Announced are:
1. The Discontinuation of the Office of Khalifa in Nigeria
In a historic decision, the Office of Khalifa within the Tijjaniyyah in Nigeria has been discontinued. According to the statement, this move aligns with the return of Khalifa Muhammad Sanusi II to the throne of the Kano Emirate. Sheikh Mahy expressed that this decision was made in recognition of the need for harmonious collaboration and to simplify leadership structures within the Tijjaniyyah order in Nigeria.
2. Oversight of Tijjaniyyah in Nigeria by Senior Scholars
The affairs of the Tijjaniyyah movement in Nigeria will continue to be guided and counselled by two highly revered scholars, Sheikh Tahir Usman Bauchi and Sheikh Sharif Ibrahim Saleh Al-Husaini. “Their scholarship, wisdom and dedication will provide a steady hand in leading the Tijjaniyyah community as they have done over the years,” the Khalifah stated.
3. Leadership of National Mawlid Celebrations
The National Mawlid celebrations of Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse in Nigeria will now be under the direct leadership of Sheikh Mahy Niasse. He will work closely with other Sheikhs and Muqaddams to ensure the event continues to serve as a unifying and spiritual milestone for the Tijjaniyyah movement.
4. Establishment of a World Tijjaniyyah Assembly
In a bold step toward fostering global unity, an international office has been established to facilitate the formation of a World Tijjaniyyah Assembly. Through the office, the proposed Assembly will be a platform for the promotion of collaboration among Tijjaniyyah Sheikhs worldwide.
The Assembly will also work to strengthen and enhance international ties between the Tijjaniyyah movement and other organisations.
These resolutions mark a new and interesting chapter for the Tijjaniyyah movement around the world. “Khalifa Sheikh Mahy Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse has called on all followers to remain united and committed to the collective mission of the movement.
He prays that, Allah SWT guide us all in implementing these resolutions for the benefit of the Tijjaniyyah community and the Ummah at large,” the statement concluded.
The resolutions have been met with widespread approval from Tijjaniyyah followers. Speaking to this newspaper, a Tijjaniyyah follower from Kano, Mallam Musa Bello, expressed optimism: “This is a historic moment for us. Sheikh Tahir Usman Bauchi and Sheikh Shariff Saleh have provided us with exceptional spiritual leadership and have guided us, the Tijjaniyyah followers with wise counsel.
We continue to align with Khalifa Niasse’s leadership, which continuously inspires confidence and unity among Tijjaniyyah followers.”
Renowned Islamic scholar Dr. Abdullahi Ahmad also lauded the move, particularly the establishment of the international office, describing it as “a visionary step that will give the Tijjaniyyah movement a stronger voice on the global stage.”