Naira rains at Zumratul Adabiyyah book launch, as Sultan of Sokoto leads dignitaries to mark 100th year of establishment

*Institution makes over N565 million from launch of three books at event

By BASHIR ADEFAKA

Sultan Abubakar emphasised the importance of preserving Islamic heritage, promoting sound moral upbringing and encouraging younger generations to embrace knowledge, discipline and service to humanity telling the Muslim youth represented by students of the Ansar-Ul-Islam group of schools “not to allow yourselves to be used as bandits for whatever reason” but that they should uphold the tenet of Islam through benefitial knowledge.

A wave of excitement, gratitude and celebration swept through Az-Zumratul Adabiyyatul Kamaliyah as the Islamic organisation marked centenary anniversary of its existence as first institution of learning ever in Nigeria, with the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, leading an array of dignitaries to commemorate 100 years of its existence and contributions to all stratas of knowledge inclusive of Islamic learning, moral upbringing and community development.

The historic celebration in Ilorin, Kwara State, brought together traditional rulers, politicians, Islamic scholars, foreign nationals, community leaders, alumni, members of the organisation and well-wishers, whose presence underscored the enduring place of the century-old institution in the religious and educational history of the country.

One of the major highlights of the occasion was the generous donations of money in real sense by guests and well-wishers who took part in the launch of three books that were unveiled at the event, a colourful expression of appreciation, solidarity and celebration that added glamour to the centenary festivities.

Beyond the excitement surrounding the occasion, however, the celebration represented a significant milestone in the life of an organisation whose name has become associated with the promotion of Islamic values, Arabic education and the preservation of religious and cultural heritage across generations.

The atmosphere combined royal splendour, religious devotion and joyous celebration as guests joined in recognising the institution’s remarkable journey.

The centenary celebration was particularly significant because of the enduring legacy of the late Sheikh Muhammad Kamalud-Deen Al-Adabiy, MFR, OFR, whose commitment to Islamic education and character formation helped shape the institution’s identity. His vision, rooted in the acquisition of knowledge and the propagation of Islamic values, has continued to inspire generations of students and adherents. The 100th anniversary therefore served not only as an occasion for merriment but also as an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices, dedication and foresight that sustained the institution through successive generations.

The presence of the Sultan of Sokoto added considerable prestige to the celebration, underscoring the importance of religious institutions in preserving Nigeria’s Islamic heritage and promoting peaceful coexistence. As President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), the Sultan remains a prominent voice on Muslim unity, religious harmony and national development.

In his remarks, Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar congratulated the Adabiyyah family on attaining the historic milestone, commending their enduring commitment to Islamic education, scholarship, character development and the promotion of moral values.

He emphasised the importance of preserving Islamic heritage, promoting sound moral upbringing and encouraging younger generations to embrace knowledge, discipline and service to humanity telling the Muslim youth represented by students of the Ansar-Ul-Islam group of schools “not to allow yourselves to be used as bandits for whatever reason” but that they should uphold the tenet of Islam through benefitial knowledge.

Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar also underscored the significance of documenting the history and achievements of Islamic organisations, noting that such efforts would help preserve their legacies and inspire future generations to sustain their contributions to society.

Accompanied by members of the Sultanate Council Sokoto namely Magajin Garin Sokoto, His Royal Highness Alhaji Ahmed Bello, and Sai’n Kilgori, His Royal Highness Dr. Mohammed Jabbi Kilgori as well as his second son, Walid Sa’ad Abubakar, the Sultan’s participation in the centenary highlighted the significance of an institution that has devoted a century to religious learning and the nurturing of moral values.

He was also accompanied by high-powered delegation members of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) namely the Secretary-General and former Registrar/Chief Executive of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Professor Is-haq Olanrewaju Oloyede, CON, Kuliyan Sokoto; Deputy Secretary-General National Affairs, Professor Mahfouz Adedimeji; Imam National Mosque Abuja, Sheikh AbdulKadir Salman Makami, Ubandoma Ilorin, and Mufti of Ilorin Emirate, Sheikh Sulaiman Faruq Onikijipa, among others.

Other dignitaries seated at the event attended by the Sultan were former President of the Nigerian Senate, Dr. Abubakar Bukola Saraki, CON; 15th Emir of Kano His Royal Highness Alhaji Ibrahim Ado Bayero; Dr. AWA Ibraheem, FCA, Chairman of the centenary ceremony; Honourable Mashood Mustapha, chief launcher for the newly published centenary’s three books, Yahaya Seriki, among others.

The generous flow of money that rained came from guests including chief launcher Mashood Mustapha, who started launching the three books with what he described as small but foundational (low-level) amount of N10 million urging others to build on such foundation to take the anticipated amount to a greater height.

Mustapha was followed by a systematic announcement by AWA Ibraheem, who though served as chairman of the occasion was dragged into the role of book launcher at the centenary ceremony by his spiritual leader and Chief Imam of Offa, Sheikh Dr. Muhyideen Salman Hussein Al-Imam, and who said, “My own Chief Imam of Offa has spoken and I cannot say no. I give N1 million for each year from the year of establishment of this institution until this year”, meaning that, in response to special appeal by his spiritual leader, the Chief Imam of Offa, AWA Ibraheem launched the book with the first whooping amount of N100 million.

He was followed by Yahaya Seriki who gave N120 million, Saraki who have N150 million, Governor of Kwara State AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq represented, who gave N180 million in total, and Professor Yusuf Ali (SAN), who gave N5 million. N565 million was raised in total. There were still other launchers.

This naira rain by the launchers and supporters, created an atmosphere of excitement and appreciation. The practice, commonly associated with celebratory occasions in Nigeria, reflected the enthusiasm of guests who had gathered to honour the institution and celebrate its milestone achievement in paying full complement to the memory of its founder, Sheikh Muhammad Kamal-Deen Al-Adabiyya, who was the first Mufti of Ilorin Emirate. Against the backdrop of traditional greetings, photographs and jubilant exchanges, the money flows added glamour to the occasion, while the deeper significance remained the celebration of a century of educational and religious service.

Beyond the spectacle, the anniversary provided an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of teachers, scholars, administrators, students and supporters who have helped preserve the institution’s mission. Sustaining an educational establishment for 100 years requires more than a founder’s vision; it demands commitment, sacrifice, effective leadership and the willingness of successive generations to carry the torch forward. The centenary was therefore a moment to appreciate those who kept the institution’s ideals alive and to encourage renewed investment in its future.

The celebration also brought into focus the place of Arabic and Islamic education in Nigeria’s broader educational landscape. For generations, institutions of this nature have served as centres of religious instruction, literacy, moral guidance and community engagement. Their contribution extends beyond the classroom, influencing family life, social responsibility and the values that shape communities. At a time when Nigeria faces concerns about youth development, social indiscipline and declining moral standards, the anniversary offered a timely reminder of the importance of education that combines intellectual growth with sound character.

For the alumni and beneficiaries of Az-Zumratul Adabiyyatul Kamaliiyah, the centenary was also a homecoming and an opportunity to reconnect with an institution that shaped their intellectual and spiritual journeys. Such anniversaries often bring together different generations, enabling former students to reflect on their experiences and renew their commitment to supporting the institution. The gathering equally offered an opportunity to encourage younger learners to appreciate the sacrifices of those who came before them and to understand that preserving a legacy requires active participation.

The Sultan’s attendance further reinforced the relationship between traditional leadership and religious education in Nigeria. Traditional rulers and Islamic leaders have historically played important roles in encouraging learning, mediating community concerns and promoting peaceful relations among people of different backgrounds. Their participation in occasions such as this sends a message about the continuing relevance of scholarship, responsible leadership and mutual respect. The centenary thus transcended the boundaries of an institutional anniversary to become a celebration of shared heritage and collective responsibility.

As the festivities continued, the milestone also raised expectations about the institution’s next century. Preserving its historical identity while responding to contemporary educational needs will require sustained funding, improved facilities, support for teachers and students, and a commitment to maintaining high standards. The goodwill generated by the gathering could provide a foundation for stronger partnerships among alumni, philanthropists, public officials and the wider community. The enduring test of the celebration will ultimately be how effectively its enthusiasm translates into tangible improvements in education and institutional development.

For Az-Zumratul Adabiyyatul Kamaliyah, reaching 100 years represents a landmark achievement worthy of reflection, gratitude and renewed purpose. With the Sultan of Sokoto leading the distinguished gathering and naira notes adding colour to the festivities, the anniversary celebrated not merely the passage of time but the survival of a vision built around knowledge, faith and service.

As the institution looks towards another century, its greatest legacy will be measured not by the grandeur of its celebration alone, but by the generations it educates, the values it upholds and the positive contributions it continues to make to society.