By Bello Abdullahi
Friday was a day that glowed with promise for Nigeria’s future. It was not merely an event, but a profound reminder of what this nation can achieve when faith, unity, and understanding come together.
The Diaspora Alliance, in its noble vision of strengthening harmony, sought the support of the National Mosque Management for a special session of prayers dedicated to the Igbo people, in commemoration of their worldwide Thanksgiving Day.
What unfolded was more than a prayer, it was a mosaic of brotherhood. Presiding over the gathering was an Igbo scholar of repute, Sheikh Professor Iliyasu Usman, himself from Enugu State, a testament to the deep interweaving of identity, faith, and belonging. Also present was a Director of the National Mosque, Mallam Umoru A. Safari from Edo State, symbolising the wider embrace of Nigeria’s diversity. Among the Imams who lent their voices and hearts was Imam Haroun Muhammad Eze, Esq., one of the Mosque’s Imams, likewise from Enugu State.
The session drew together a constellation of Igbo Muslims and leaders. Dawud Oluchukwu Amuta, Yakubu Ruby Uzoma from Abia, Muhammadu Ajah from Ebonyi, Abubakar Ikechukwu from Enugu, Tijjani Ibrahim Ukiwo of Abia State, and many others whose presence affirmed the depth of Igbo representation in the house of Islam.
On the side of the Diaspora Alliance stood pillars of intellect and leadership – its Patron, Professor Theophilus Ndubuaka; its Leader, Professor Edmund Ugwu Agbo; Hon. Amaragbu Cletus, and several others who, in unity, added gravity to the occasion.
As a mark of gratitude and respect, the Diaspora Alliance also brought gifts to the Imams – simple yet powerful tokens of goodwill that underscored the spirit of giving and mutual appreciation at the heart of the event. It was a gesture that transformed the gathering from a mere formal session into a true family encounter, where love and sincerity flowed in equal measure with prayers.
The day was doubly significant. Not only was it an Igbo Thanksgiving, but the Friday prayer itself carried national symbolism; it formed part of the activities marking Nigeria’s 65th Independence Anniversary. In that sacred moment, prayers for the Igbo nation blended seamlessly with prayers for Nigeria, reminding all present that the destiny of every group is tied to the destiny of the whole.
It was a gathering rich in prayers, but richer still in understanding. Experiences were shared, bridges were built, and a vision for sustained interaction was charted. The event was not just about thanksgiving; it was about healing, belonging, and showing that Nigeria’s mosaic is strongest when every tile shines in harmony.
For me, as a facilitator and participant, it was an honour to contribute to the success of such a noble initiative. What transpired on Friday, 26th September 2025, was not only a celebration of the Igbo people but a celebration of Nigeria itself, the Nigeria we dream of, where diversity is strength, and unity is not mere rhetoric but lived reality.
Indeed, it was a day of thanksgiving for all of us.