66th anniversary of independence: Sokoto holds special prayers for Nigeria at mosques

As part of activities marking the 66th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence, the Sokoto State Government has held special prayer sessions at eight Jumu’at mosques across the metropolis, seeking Allah’s blessings, guidance and protection for the nation.

Jumu’at mosques where special prayers were held included Shehu Usman Danfodiyo, Sultan Bello, Usman bin Affan, Sheikh Sidi Attahiru, Sheikh Buhari Siriddawa, Buhari Dan Shehu, Sultan Sa’ad and Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko Jumu’at Mosque along Bodinga Road.

At the Usman bin Affan Jumu’at Mosque, Gawon Nama, seven clerics, led by the mosque’s Chief Imam, Sheikh Yahuza Shehu Tambuwal, led special prayers, focusing on the security challenges facing the country and the need for peaceful coexistence among Nigeria’s different ethnic groups.

The clerics also prayed for Allah’s guidance, blessings and protection for the nation’s leaders, soliciting divine assistance for them in addressing the pressing challenges hindering Nigeria’s march to greatness.

They also prayed for the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Ahmed Aliyu in the upcoming general elections.

“Ya Allah, as the 2027 elections approach, we pray for a peaceful and smooth general election,” they prayed.

The special prayer session was attended by Secretary to the State Government, Muhammad Bello Sifawa; Chief of Staff, Government House, Sokoto, Aminu Haliru Dikko, mni; State APC Chairman, Haruna Adiya; Chairman of the APC Committee of Elders, Abdullahi Aminu Tambari; Commissioners for Health, Dr. Faruk Wurno; Information, Sambo Bello Danchadi; Religious Affairs, Dr. Jabir Sani Mai Hulla; Home Affairs, Isa Muhammad Tambagarka; and transportation, Bala Kokani.

Also present were Special Advisers, Senior Special Assistants, representatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps and the Prison Service, as well as other senior government officials.

Nigeria gained independence from British colonial rule on 1 October 1960. This date has since been celebrated annually as the country’s Independence Day and marks the end of British colonial rule. The modern political entity of Nigeria was formed following the merger of the Northern and Southern protectorates in 1914, 46 years before independence.

Special Independence Day prayers are held annually in Sokoto and other parts of the country as part of activities celebrating the anniversary of Nigeria’s independence.