By Engr. Abdullahi Ramat, PhD
There are few tributes more meaningful than transforming remembrance into service and prayer into lasting impact. Such was the atmosphere at the National Mosque, Abuja, on June 21, 2026, as His Excellency Alh Ibrahim Kabir Masari, Special Adviser to the President on Political and Other Matters, hosted the annual prayer gathering in memory of the late Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, OON, MFR, beloved mother of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The event attracted an impressive gathering of dignitaries, including Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, the Governors of Yobe, Borno, Jigawa, Kebbi and Sokoto States, ministers, the Deputy President of the Senate, members of the National Assembly, heads of government agencies and parastatals, traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, and other distinguished Nigerians.
Adding to the spiritual significance of the occasion were over 1,350 Islamic scholars drawn from the 36 states of the Federation and the Federal Capital Territory. Together, they recited the Holy Qur’an and offered prayers for the repose of the soul of Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, as well as for peace, unity and progress in Nigeria.
Over the years, Alh Ibrahim Kabir Masari has ensured that the memory of Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji is preserved not only through prayers but also through projects that continue to uplift lives. As Sadaqatul Jariyah in her honour, he has funded and delivered more than 250 boreholes across Northern Nigeria, providing clean water to thousands of families. He has also commenced the construction of a grand mosque in Kaduna, further extending a legacy rooted in faith, compassion and service to humanity.
The most ambitious chapter of that legacy was unveiled at this year’s gathering with the launch of the Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji International Islamic Learning and Research Centre. Conceived as Africa’s modern-day Darul Hikmah (House of Wisdom), the world-class digital institution is designed to bring together scholars, researchers and innovators from around the world to advance Islamic scholarship through science, technology and innovation.
Powered by Artificial Intelligence and accessible globally, the Centre is envisioned as a growing repository of Islamic knowledge, research, creativity and intellectual excellence for generations to come.
In one of the most memorable moments of the event, Alh Ibrahim Kabir Masari announced that, just as he personally funded the boreholes and other legacy projects, he would solely fund and build the International Islamic Learning and Research Centre without seeking support from any individual or organisation.
For many observers, Masari’s commitment to preserving the legacy of Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji reflects a rare level of loyalty, devotion and selflessness in public service. Many attendees described his initiatives as unprecedented, noting that few, if any, presidential aides in Nigeria’s history have personally funded such extensive projects in honour of a sitting President’s family legacy.
Beyond politics and official responsibility, Masari’s actions have demonstrated a deep personal commitment to President Tinubu and his family. To those who know him closely, his dedication to the success of the Tinubu administration transcends political affiliation; it is rooted in conviction, admiration and a sincere belief in the President’s vision for Nigeria. His commitment to service, loyalty and sacrifice has earned him widespread respect among supporters of the administration, many of whom view him as an example of dedication to a cause greater than self.
As the gathering concluded, there was a shared feeling that the occasion was more than a memorial. It was a celebration of a life whose impact continues to inspire acts of service and a testament to the enduring power of charity. Through water for the thirsty, places of worship for the faithful, and a centre dedicated to knowledge and enlightenment, Alh Ibrahim Kabir Masari has ensured that the legacy of Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji will continue to live on -not merely in memory, but in the countless lives these projects will touch for generations to come.
As prayers were offered for the late Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji, many also prayed for continued good health, wisdom, strength and divine guidance for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he leads Nigeria towards a future of greater peace, stability, prosperity and opportunity for generations yet unborn.
