Grand Khalifa of Lagos hails Maqari over Nigeria’s first female-only university
Says Tazkiyah Varsity a milestone for women’s empowerment, education
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The Grand Khalifa of Tijaniyyah, Lagos State, Fadhilat Sheikh Aminullah Akoshile, has commended the Deputy Chief Imam of the National Mosque, Abuja, Professor Sheikh Ibrahim Ahmad Maqari, for establishing Nigeria’s first female-only university, Tazkiyah University, Kaduna.
In a statement he personally signed and issued on Wednesday, Sheikh Akoshile described Prof. Maqari as “a beacon of knowledge, a servant of Allah, and an agent of social transformation,” applauding his relentless dedication to empowering women through education while upholding the noble principles of the Tijaniyyah Order and Islamic values.
According to him, the establishment of Tazkiyah University is not only an academic breakthrough but also a divine intervention that will drive educational inclusion for girls and women, particularly in regions where cultural and societal barriers have limited access to higher learning.
“Prof. Maqari’s vision reflects the true essence of Islam, which promotes knowledge, empowerment, and the dignity of women,” the Khalifa said.
He further explained that the university represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s education sector, opening up unique opportunities for women to access quality education and unlock their full potential.
“I am particularly delighted to see a pioneering initiative that promotes the advancement of women in our society. This university will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our female populace, equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to our nation’s development,” he added.
Sheikh Akoshile emphasised that the importance of women’s education is deeply rooted in Islamic tradition. Quoting a hadith reported by Ibn Majah, he recalled that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim.”
He noted that the Prophet’s emphasis on treating daughters with kindness and respect, including granting them access to education is a testament to the value Islam places on women’s empowerment.
“In the context of Tazkiyah University, Prof. Maqari’s vision to provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment for women is not only promoting education but also upholding the values of compassion, justice and equality central to our faith,” he said.
The Khalifa also cited another narration by Ahmad where the Prophet (peace be upon him) stressed: “Whoever has a daughter and he does not bury her alive, nor does he belittle her, nor does he prefer his son over her, Allah will admit him to Paradise.”
Sheikh Akoshile particularly lauded Prof. Maqari for pledging to channel the university’s profits into a perpetual trust fund for the support of orphans, describing it as “a noble act of service to humanity and an exemplary gesture of compassion and selflessness.”
Calling for broad-based support, he urged religious leaders, education stakeholders, and policymakers to rally behind the project, stressing that Tazkiyah University integrates academic excellence, moral values, and social responsibility, setting a new benchmark for inclusive education in Nigeria.
“The Tijaniyyah Movement in Lagos State joins millions of Nigerians in celebrating this visionary milestone. We pray for Allah’s continuous guidance, protection, and blessings upon Prof. Maqari as he advances the cause of knowledge, morality and women’s empowerment,” he added.
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