Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has urged Islamic scholars to exercise restraint and humility in their religious teachings, particularly when addressing issues affecting society.
Governor Zulum made the call during the graduation ceremony of 30 students who successfully memorised the Holy Qur’an at the Indimi Trust Islamic Centre in Maiduguri.
The ceremony, held at the Indimi Mosque along the Old Damboa Road, celebrated the graduates who were fully sponsored by renowned philanthropist and businessman, Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi, through the Indimi Islamic Trust.
Speaking at the event, Zulum directed the release of N1 million to each of the 30 graduating students, amounting to N30 million.
He also approved N2 million for each of the eight teachers who trained the students, bringing the total support to the teachers to N16 million.
The governor commended Alhaji Muhammadu Indimi for his continued investment in Islamic scholarship, education and human capital development, particularly across the North-East.
Indimi, founder and chairman of Oriental Energy Resources, has supported several educational initiatives in the region and across Nigeria. His philanthropic efforts include a recent N2 billion contribution to the University of Maiduguri education endowment fund.
Zulum urged Islamic scholars to ensure that their sermons and teachings contribute to peace, unity and responsible citizenship.
He emphasised the need for religious discourse to be conducted with modesty and restraint, encouraging scholars to focus on teachings that promote peaceful coexistence and social responsibility among Muslims.
The governor also reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting both formal and non-formal education, noting the importance of Islamic education alongside Western education in developing responsible citizens.
The 30 graduating students, who memorised the entire Holy Qur’an, were presented with certificates during the ceremony.
The event was attended by prominent personalities, including the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi; Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno; the Waziri of Borno, Mutawalli Shettima Bukar; and the Chief Imam of Borno, Imam Zannah Laisu Ibrahim.
Islamic scholars, senior government officials and members of the business community from across the state also attended the ceremony.
