Renowned Islamic Scholar Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi Passes Away at 98

By Gambo Jagindi
November 27, 2025

Nigeria’s Islamic community is mourning the loss of a revered spiritual leader, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, who passed away on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at the age of 98. The esteemed cleric was a prominent figure in the Tijjaniyyah movement and a respected scholar of Islam, known for his vast knowledge, spiritual guidance, and commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence and unity in Nigeria .

Sheikh Bauchi was born on June 29, 1927, in Gombe, and devoted his life to Islamic scholarship from a young age. He memorized the Quran under the guidance of his father, Alhaji Usman, and furthered his Islamic education under notable scholars. He became a leading figure in the Tijjaniyyah Sufi order, guiding millions of followers and training thousands of students .

The Sheikh was widely recognized for his contributions to Islamic education, leading large followership, and shaping religious thought within the Tijjaniyyah community and the wider Muslim world. He served as the deputy chairman of the Fatwa Committee of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and was a recipient of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) .

Tributes have poured in from religious leaders, politicians, and ordinary people, praising his life of teaching, prayer, and service to humanity. Funeral prayers were held in Bauchi, with thousands attending despite short notice. The Governor of Bauchi State, Bala Mohammed, described his death as “a monumental loss”.

Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi’s legacy extends beyond his scholarly work, as he established over 1,000 housing units for students and followers, funded Quranic memorization programs, and supported orphans, widows, and the poor. His teachings emphasized moral discipline, tolerance, and adherence to Islamic principles, earning him mass followership and deep respect within and beyond Nigeria .

May Allah forgive his shortcomings and grant him jannat firdaus!