NSCIA Backs State Policing, Mobilises Muslims for 2027 Elections

The Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), headed by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has lent its backing to a proposed amendment to the constitution that would shift the control of Nigeria’s police operations from federal to state level. This decision was made during the organization’s General Assembly in Abuja on October 1, 2026, as outlined in a communique signed by NSCIA President-General Alhaji Abubakar and Secretary-General Prof. Ishaq Oloyede.

The NSCIA has called for a thorough overhaul of Nigeria’s security framework and has expressed support for state policing, provided the reforms meet certain criteria. These include ensuring professionalism, adhering to constitutional protections, maintaining impartiality, guaranteeing accountability, securing sustainable funding, respecting fundamental rights, and fostering effective coordination between federal and state security agencies.

Furthermore, the NSCIA has urged all governmental bodies to respect the right of Muslim female students, civilian corps members, security personnel, and employees in other workplaces to wear hijab as a fundamental human right. The council has also urged Muslims to secure their National Identity Numbers (NINs) and Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and to actively participate in the selection of Nigerian leaders during the 2027 elections.

Critically, NSCIA has criticized the University of Ibadan, Obafemi Awolowo University, and the University of Lagos for their resistance to a Supreme Court ruling that sanctioned the wearing of hijab in their international schools. The council has chastised these institutions for attempting to redefine their status as private schools, despite their origins as public institutions, in an attempt to undermine the court’s decision. NSCIA has encouraged these universities to comply with the law and be more inclusive.

While acknowledging the government’s efforts to boost the economy, NSCIA has called for a swift reduction in transportation and food costs to alleviate the hardships faced by ordinary Nigerians. The council also adopted the 2026 report of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) and endorsed its recommendations to elevate the Hajj industry in Nigeria to new heights of excellence.

The meeting was attended by prominent Emirs, Obas, Imams, Chiefs, Council officials, renowned Islamic scholars, and leaders from various national Islamic organizations, as well as delegates from all Nigerian states and the Federal Capital Territory.