March 16, (THEWILL) – The Kano State Government has unveiled plans to transform the historic Kofar Mata Eid Prayer Ground into an International Islamic Conference Centre, positioning it as a hub for religious and scholarly activities.
Governor Abba Yusuf disclosed this during an Iftar gathering with prominent members of the Council of Ulama and Imams at the Government House.
A statement by his spokesperson, Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, noted that rather than allowing the Eid Ground to remain idle or be misused after the biannual congregational prayers, the government had resolved to repurpose it for continuous religious engagements.
“The Eid Ground is currently used only twice a year. Converting it into a world-class Islamic Centre will provide a permanent space for Islamic propagation and scholarly discussions,” the statement read.
The governor announced that the foundation stone for the project would be laid two weeks after Eid al-Fitr, after which the centre would be handed over to the Ulama for management.
Yusuf also reiterated his administration’s commitment to renovating all Friday mosques across the state to ensure they meet appropriate standards for worshippers.
He directed the state Commissioner for Religious Affairs to compile a list of mosques requiring urgent intervention.
Additionally, he disclosed that a new and larger Government House Friday Mosque is under construction, designed to accommodate more worshippers and enhance spiritual activities.
Reaffirming his administration’s strong partnership with the Council of Ulama, he assured them that their inputs would continue to shape government policies to promote peace, stability, and religious harmony in the state.
The governor commended the Ulama for their unwavering support, prayers, and guidance, urging them to sustain their efforts in fostering unity and peaceful coexistence among the people.
Speaking on behalf of the religious leaders, Sheikh Muhammad Nasir Adam, Imam of Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Mosque, lauded the governor’s vision, stating that Islam encourages feeding those who fast and developing places of worship.
Adam assured the government of the Ulama’s continuous support and prayers for the state’s development.
The Iftar gathering was attended by members of the Shari’a Commission, the State Executive Council, and other dignitaries.
Abdullahi Yusuf is a seasoned journalist, communicator and was previously the Deputy Editor-In-Chief and Zonal Manager, News Agency of Nigeria, NAN, Jos, where he retired on December 15, 2021
