Kaduna State University’s Centre for Qur’anic Science has been renamed in honor of the late Islamic cleric, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, who passed away on November 27. Governor Uba Sani announced the renaming at a Maulid celebration of Fityanul Islam, where he revealed that the centre will now be known as the Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi Centre of Excellence for Qur’anic Sciences and Memorisation.
The governor’s decision to immortalize the late Sheikh’s name follows his earlier promise to do so when he visited the cleric’s family in Bauchi. During the visit, Governor Sani had pledged to establish a foundation that would promote inter-religious harmony, a cause the late Sheikh was known to champion during his lifetime.
At the Maulid celebration in Zaria, Governor Sani urged Muslims to unite in their devotion and uphold the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, which transcend boundaries. He commended the leadership of Fityanul Islam for their dedication to peacebuilding and social cohesion, and expressed appreciation for their prayers and support for his administration and the development of Kaduna State.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive and people-centred governance, ensuring that no one is left behind in the state. He also disclosed that he regularly consults with Sheikh Bashir Dahiru, one of the late Sheikh’s sons, on matters related to Islam and leadership. According to Governor Sani, Sheikh Bashir emphasizes that selfless and effective leadership are anchored on justice, and that justice and equity are essential for achieving peace.
The renaming of the centre is a significant move to recognize the late Sheikh’s contributions to Islamic scholarship and his advocacy for inter-religious harmony. As Kaduna State continues to promote peaceful coexistence and development, the governor’s gesture is seen as a step towards fostering greater understanding and unity among the state’s diverse population. With the establishment of the foundation and the renaming of the centre, Governor Sani’s administration aims to build on the late Sheikh’s legacy and promote a more harmonious and inclusive society.