Sheikh Sharif Ibrahim Saleh, a respected figure in the Tijjaniyya community, led the funeral prayers for Sheikh Dahiru, which drew thousands of followers in Bauchi. His appointment has been widely welcomed, reflecting the unity and loyalty among the sect’s members. Analysts view this smooth transition as a sign of the Tijjaniyya’s strong organizational structure and commitment to maintaining harmony.
The Tijjaniyya order, known for its Sufi traditions and emphasis on peace, plays a significant role in Nigeria’s religious and social life. With Sheikh Sharif at the helm, the sect is expected to continue its legacy of spiritual guidance, education, and community development.
The faithful have expressed confidence in the new Caliph’s leadership, seeing it as a divine fulfillment of Sheikh Dahiru’s vision. As the Tijjaniyya community moves forward, the focus remains on upholding its teachings and fostering unity among its followers.
Sheikh Sharif Saleh is a renowned Nigerian Islamic scholar, teacher, and mufassir (Quranic exegete). Born on May 12, 1938, in Al-Fadhaa near Dikwa, Borno State, he is the son of Sheikh Saleh, a respected religious scholar. Currently, he serves as the Grand Imam of Nigeria, heads the Supreme Council for Fatwa and Islamic Affairs, and is a member of the Muslim Council of Elders.
Education and Scholarly Journey
Sheikh Sharif began his early education at his father’s madrasa, a prominent Islamic school in Borno. He later pursued advanced studies in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Pakistan, specializing in Hadith and Quranic sciences. Among his esteemed teachers were:
- Sheikh Al-Qadi Abani Borno
- Sheikh Adam al-Mahrusa Borno
- Mahmoud Khalil Al-Hussary (renowned Quran reciter)
- Muhammad Zakariya al-Kandahlawi (Hadith scholar)
- Ibrahim Nyass (Senegalese Sufi leader)
- He also studied English in London and graduated from the Supreme Islamic Institute in Nigeria.
Contributions and Leadership
- Founded Annahda College of Science and Islamic Studies (1957).
- Delivered lectures globally on Quranic exegesis (Tafsir), Hadith, Islamic jurisprudence, and ethics.
- Authored over 600 books and 200 conference papers in Arabic, covering topics like Quranic sciences, Prophetic traditions, history, and philosophy.
Awards and Honors
Sheikh Sharif’s contributions have been recognized internationally:
- Egyptian First Class Award in Arts and Sciences (1993, presented by President Hosni Mubarak).
- Libya’s Pioneering Service Award (1998, conferred by Muammar Gaddafi).
- Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) (2008, awarded by Nigerian President Yar’Adua).
- Honorary Doctorate from Nile University, Abuja (2015).
- Morocco’s Royal Award in Islamic Thought (2017, granted by King Mohammed VI).