Gen Saraso Receives Chief Imam Of Sultan Bello Mosque, Promises Continuous Partnership and Support
Major General Mayirenso Lander David Saraso, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 1 Joint Task Force North-West Operation FANSAN YAMMA, welcomed Sheikh Muhammed Sulaiman Adam, the Chief Imam of Sultan Bello Mosque, in courtesy visot to the Division’s Headquarters in Kaduna on Tuesday, 25 February 2025. The historic visit marked a significant milestone in strengthening the relationship between the Nigerian Army and religious leaders, reinforcing efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in Kaduna State and the Division’s Area of Operational Responsibility.
Maj Gen Saraso commended Sheikh Adam and his team for their vital role in intelligence gathering and community engagement, emphasizing the importance of religious leaders in promoting peace and guiding youths away from extremism and other social vices. He highlighted the successes of non-kinetic approaches in peace-building efforts, which have led to the voluntary surrender of arms by terrorist and insurgent groups as well as the unconditional release of over 100 kidnapped victims.
Sultan Bello Mosque built in 1962, where Sheikh Adam serves as the Chief Imam, is one of the largest Mosques in Northern Nigeria. The Mosque which is named after Muhammadu Bello, the son of Usman Dan Fodio, has undergone significant expansions, including the enlargement of its prayer area to accomodate over 25,000 worshippers every Friday.
Sheikh Adam’s visit to 1 Division Headquarters highlights the importance of collaboration between religious leaders and security agencies in promoting peace and stability in Nigeria.
Sheikh Adam, who has been leading the Sultan Bello Mosque since 2017, expressed gratitude for the Nigerian Army’s support and called for stronger collaboration between religious leaders and security agencies. He noted that clerics would continue to promote peace and discourage violent extremism among youths.
The GOC assured Sheikh Adam of the Nigerian Army’s commitment to ensuring security, particularly during the upcoming Ramadan season. This assurance underscores the Army’s dedication to protecting the lives and properties of all citizens, regardless of their religious affiliations.
The visit was concluded with signing of the visitor’s book by the guest, exchange of gifts, and group photographs.
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