In a significant leadership transition within Nigeria’s Islamic legal community, Dr. Bashir Umar has been appointed as the new President of the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN), succeeding Sheikh Hadiyatullah, who has served in the role for over two decades.
The announcement was made during the council’s national conference held in Abuja, where members from across the country gathered to reflect on the council’s achievements and chart a new course under fresh leadership.
Dr. Umar, a respected Islamic scholar and former Special Adviser on Islamic Affairs to the Central Bank of Nigeria, brings a wealth of experience in both religious jurisprudence and public policy. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the council’s role in promoting Shari’ah-compliant financial systems and enhancing the application of Islamic legal principles in Nigeria’s pluralistic legal framework.
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Umar expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him and pledged to uphold the council’s mission of advocating for justice, moral rectitude, and the peaceful coexistence of Nigeria’s diverse religious communities.
Sheikh Hadiyatullah, who has led the SCSN since its inception, was lauded for his unwavering commitment to the propagation of Islamic values and his efforts in fostering unity among Muslims in Nigeria. Under his stewardship, the council has been instrumental in advising on matters of Islamic law and contributing to national discourse on religious and ethical issues.
The Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria, established to serve as a central body for the coordination and promotion of Shari’ah principles, continues to play a pivotal role in the religious and legal landscape of the country. With Dr. Umar at the helm, stakeholders anticipate a renewed vigor in the council’s activities, particularly in areas concerning Islamic finance, legal reforms, and interfaith dialogue.
As Nigeria navigates complex socio-religious dynamics, the leadership of Dr. Bashir Umar is expected to bring a balanced and progressive approach to the council’s engagements, reinforcing its relevance in contemporary society.
