ASR Africa Launches Reconstruction of Historic Mallam Abdulkarim Jummat Mosque in Zaria
By Hussaina Yakubu/
December 15, 2024
The Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) has commenced the reconstruction of the historic Mallam Abdulkarim Jummat Mosque in Zaria.
The groundbreaking ceremony,which was organized by the Zazzau Emirate Council under the leadership of the Emir of Zazzau, Mal. Ahmed Bamalli, marks a significant milestone for the region.
The event brought together dignitaries from across the country, including the representative of Chairman of ASR Africa and BUA Group, Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu, royal fathers, government officials, and members of the public.
In his remarks, Uba Sani, Governor of Kaduna State, hosted the event and expressed gratitude to all who contributed to the mosque’s reconstruction.
Gov. Sani reiterated that the state government would continue the support for the project to ensure prompt completion.
He added that the state government was in touch with key stakeholders towards generating more funds for the project.
He particularly acknowledged the Sultan of Sokoto, His Excellency Alhaji Muhammad Abubakar Sa’ad Abubakar III, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen.
Governor Sani highlighted the mosque’s significance, noting it will not only serve as a place of worship but also as a tourist attraction for Kaduna State.
The Emir of Zazzau, Mal. Ahmed Bamalli, commended the committee members for their dedication and extended heartfelt thanks to Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu for his generous financial commitment to the project.
According to him, the mosques was originally built in 1836, the Mallam Abdulkarim Jummat Mosque is a historic symbol of the region’s rich architectural heritage.
He said ,its collapse on August 10, 2023, prompted Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu to take on its reconstruction.
He said decision to demolish 188-year old Malam Abdulkarim Central Mosque Zaria, Kaduna State was a painfull decision that weight heavily upon the emirate council.
The new mosque will preserve its historical significance while incorporating modern facilities.
The mosque is designed to accommodate 2,000 worshippers on two floors, with an additional 5,000 in its expansive courtyard.
It will feature a state-of-the-art ablution area, a library, an ICT center, and administrative offices.
The Emir also extend gratitude to Chief Launcher Abdulsamad Rabiu, the Chairman of the Abdul Samad Rabiu Foundation and President of BUA Group.
According to him,his substantial initial contribution of two billion naira has been vital
“And 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.
Dignitaries at the events speaker house of representative, Tajudeen Abbas lauded Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu for his generosity, calling on others to emulate his commitment to community development.
He said the collapsed mosque was one of the biggest and largest historical heritage of building technology in Nigeria.
However, the resources available will be able to reach 50 per cent completion urging philanthropists to donate generously for the timely completion of the mosque.
He, therefore, restates the commitments of the National Assembly towards supporting the timely completion of the project.
The News Agency of Nigeria(NAN) reports,
ASR Africa was Founded in 2021 by African industrialist and philanthropist Abdul Samad Rabiu
NAN further reports ,ASR Africa focuses on providing sustainable, homegrown solutions to challenges in health, education, and social development across Africa.
The reconstruction of the Mallam Abdulkarim Jummat Mosque stands as a testament to ASR Africa’s dedication to preserving cultural heritage and fostering community growth.(NAN)