Nigeria has lost one of its most revered Islamic scholars, Sheikh Dahiru Usman-Bauchi, who passed away in the early hours of Thursday at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching Hospital in Bauchi. He was 98.
Malam Ahmed Mohammed, a member of the family, confirmed the cleric’s passing, noting that Sheikh Usman-Bauchi had received visitors at his residence on Wednesday night before being taken to the hospital, where he later died.
According to the family, the funeral prayer is scheduled for Friday, November 28, in Bauchi, in line with Islamic rites.
A recipient of the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), Sheikh Usman-Bauchi was widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential Islamic voices.
As the supreme leader of the Tijjaniya Sufi order in the country, he commanded immense respect for his scholarship, spiritual guidance, and decades-long dedication to Islamic propagation.
Born in 1927 in Gombe, Sheikh Usman-Bauchi devoted his life to advancing Islamic education, fostering religious understanding, and promoting peaceful coexistence among diverse communities.
His teachings, centred on moral discipline, tolerance, and adherence to Islamic principles, earned him admiration across Nigeria and beyond.
Throughout his life, he played a pivotal role in mentoring young scholars, promoting unity, and contributing to community development.
Many believe his legacy will continue to influence Islamic scholarship for generations.
Sheikh Usman-Bauchi is survived by 61 children, along with numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
