ASR Africa Leads Reconstruction of 188-year-old Mosque In Zaria
By Hussaina Yakubu
The Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa), has commenced the reconstruction of the historic Mallam Abdulkarim Jummat Mosque in Zaria built 188 years ago.
The groundbreaking ceremony was held on Sunday in Zaria, Kaduna State.
The reconstruction project initiated by the Emir of Zazzau, Malam Ahmad Bamalli, attracted dignitaries from across the country, including royal fathers, government officials, and members of the public.
In his remarks, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna state expressed gratitude to all those who contributed towards the mosque’s reconstruction, and assured that the state government would ensure its prompt completion.
He added that the state government was in touch with key stakeholders towards generating more funds for the project.
The governor particularly acknowledged the contributions of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen.
He highlighted the mosque’s significance, noting that it will not only serve as a place of worship but also a tourist attraction.
In his remarks, the Emir commended the mosque project committee members for their dedication and thanked Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu for his generous financial commitment to the project.
The Mallam Abdulkarim Jummat Mosque was originally built in 1836 and has since served as a religious centre and symbol of the rich Hausa architecture. The collapse of a part of the mosque on August 10, 2023, necessitated its complete reconstruction.
According to the Emir, the decision to demolish the 188-year-old mosque was painfull but necessary.
He assured that the new mosque will preserve the historical significance of the edifice while incorporating modern facilities.
The new mosque is designed to accommodate 2,000 worshippers on two floors, with an additional 5,000 in its expansive courtyard.
It will also have a state-of-the-art ablution area, a library, an ICT center, and administrative offices.
Emir Bamalli extended the gratitude of Zazzau Emirate Council to the Chairman of ASR Africa ASR Africa and President of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu for his initial substantial contribution of N2 billion.
“We are uplifted by his generosity as he has now taken over the project financing through ASR foundation along other sponsors including the good people of Zaria and Nigeria at large,” he added.
The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas lauded Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu for his generosity, calling on others to emulate his commitment to community service.
He said the collapsed mosque was one of the biggest and largest historical heritage of building technology in Nigeria.
The Speaker said that the money generated for the project will only be able to reach 50 per cent completion stage, and called for more generous donations from the public.
He said that the National Assembly will also support the project to ensure its timely completion.
