AhlulBayt News Agency: A conference was held in Kano, northern Nigeria, on Sunday to reflect on the life and contributions of the late founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Imam Khomeini. The event was organized by Azzahra Community in Nigeria, in collaboration with Al-Mustapha College of Education Kano and the Academic Forum of the Islamic Movement.
According to Iran Press, participants discussed Imam Khomeini’s role in shaping global political dynamics, particularly through the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which led to the overthrow of Iran’s Western-backed regime and the establishment of an Islamic Republic. His ideology continues to inspire justice movements worldwide.
Speakers at the event emphasized Khomeini’s enduring popularity in African nations, with annual commemorations of his passing held in multiple countries. His anti-oppression stance has positioned him as a role model for many seeking resistance against colonialism and foreign intervention.
Professor Abdullahi Danladi, head of the Resource Forum of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, recalled how Nigerian students, before Iran’s Islamic Revolution, had been heavily influenced by Western lifestyles, moving away from Islamic teachings. He noted that after the Revolution, the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSSN) sent a delegation led by Sheikh Zakzaky to Iran. Upon their return, they helped spread Imam Khomeini’s message, reigniting interest in Islamic education among Nigerian youth.
Alhaj Nasiru Danladi Abubakar, representing Sheikh Yakubu Abdu Ningi, spoke about how the Revolution strengthened enthusiasm for Islamic ideology in Nigeria. He pointed out that many young people, including non-Muslims, began rejecting Western influences, viewing them as corrupt.
Maimuna Abdullahi, a female Islamic scholar, highlighted Imam Khomeini’s humility, devotion to God, and commitment to family. She encouraged attendees to emulate his values in their daily lives.
Professor Bala Abdullahi, an activist and senior lecturer at Aliko Dangote University, described Imam Khomeini’s efforts as a major force in Islamic awakening and revivalism, shaping contemporary discussions on faith and social engagement.
In an interview with Iran Press, Rahamtu Abdulaziz, a senior lecturer at the Federal College of Education Kano, noted that Imam Khomeini’s influence extended beyond Iran, inspiring resistance movements in three Sahelian countries against Western political dominance.
"It was Imam Khomeini’s revolution that encouraged the people of Niger Republic to stand against Western imperialism," she said. "They successfully expelled American and French forces from their countries and overthrew oppressive governments."
The conference underscored the continuing impact of Imam Khomeini’s thoughts on Africa and the broader Islamic world, reaffirming his role as a symbol of resistance and justice.
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