Disciples rejoice as Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi Clocks 101

By Ahmad Saka

Renowned Islamic scholar and leader of Tijjaniyyah adherents, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, has clocked the age of 101 years according to the Islamic calendar. 

Sheikh Dahiru who was born on the 2nd of Almuharram 1346 A.H. (equivalent to 101 years today Friday 27th June 2025. 

Sheikh Bauchi, a highly respected scholar known for his profound understanding of the Quran and Islamic jurisprudence. He has dedicated his life to teaching both the theoretical and practical aspects of Islam, emphasising piety, knowledge, and a disciplined approach to faith. 

Sheikh Bauchi’s contributions to Islamic scholarship and education have been widely celebrated.

He said he began his Islamic education under the tutelage of his father, Alhaji Usman and he memorised the Holy Qur'an at the age of 19, and continued his studies under numerous esteemed Islamic scholars both within and outside Nigeria, with Sheikh Ibrāhīm Inyass being his most influential teacher. 

Sheikh's profound knowledge led to his recognition as a professor of Qur-ānic memorisation and education, and Tasawwuf, he has been honoured as one of the world’s greatest Mufassirun (translators of the Glorious Qur'an).

Sheikh Bauchi commenced his Tafsīr (Qur-ānic exegesis) in Bauchi State in 1948, dedicating 77 years to translating the Holy Qur-ān.

His Tafsīr broadcasts began on Bauchi Radio Corporation in 1976, and later on Radio Nigeria Kaduna in 1980. Today, numerous radio stations across northern Nigeria air his teachings, especially during Ramadan and beyond.

With a large family comprising 100 children, 406 grandchildren, and 100 great-grandchildren, Sheikh Bauchi’s legacy of Qur-ān memorisation continues. Remarkably, 78 of his children, over 199 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren are also Hafizul Qur-ān, balancing both Islamic and Western education.

Sheikh Bauchi has performed Hajj 63 times and Umrah (lesser Hajj) 207 times. 

Secretary Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi Foundation Dr Abubakar Sirimbai Dahiru said with over 1000 houses that Sheikh purchased across the country ,he live a simple life , he has only one room , one parlour and one toilet for himself all the over 1,000 houses in Bauchi , Kano and Kaduna states, among other northern states, are for his children and students to live in free. 

He has established numerous Islamic schools and farmlands as part of his effort to Promote Quranic Education,

He has established numerous Quranic memorization centers and schools, contributing to the widespread memorization of the Quran in Nigeria and West Africa. 

Sheikh Bauchi is recognised for his wisdom in preaching, which has led countless individuals to embrace Islam, particularly during Ramadan and beyond .

The Scholar is a recognized spiritual leader, guiding many towards embracing Islam and deepening their faith. He is a respected figure in Sufism and is known for his wisdom in preaching. 

He advocates for worshiping only Allāh, seeking forgiveness, and expressing gratitude for divine blessings while sending salutations to Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). As Deputy Chairman of the Fatwa Committee of the Supreme Council of Islamic Affairs, his influence is profound.

Sheikh has worked to unite Muslims from different backgrounds, emphasizing the shared principles of faith and promoting tolerance and peaceful coexistence. 

While there was no formal celebration for his birthday, disciples and clerics offered special prayers in mosques, expressing gratitude for his life and achievements. They praised his unblemished record of service to Islam and humanity, highlighting his role as a selfless and steadfast leader.

Mallam Ahmad Tijjani Saed said, “Maulana Sheikh, as he clocks the 101 age in good health, leaves a rich legacy of a life lived in the service of Allah, his nation, and humanity.”

Others, including Mallam Ahmad Tijjani Kolo, Sanusi Ahmad, and Muhammad Sogiji, commended Sheikh Bauchi’s courage in speaking against tyranny, corruption, and social ills like immorality, cultism, and drug abuse.

They separately said " Maulana Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi has significantly contributed to the development of Islam through his extensive Islamic scholarship, promotion of education, and efforts to foster unity among Muslims. He is renowned for his deep knowledge of the Quran and Islamic sciences, particularly Quranic exegesis, and has dedicated his life to teaching and disseminating Islamic knowledge".

Today second Almuharram scholars attended the annual dhikr glorifying the name of Allah that Sheikh used to organize annually to pray for peace and stability of the country .

At the event scholars, traditional leaders , disciples and students of Sheikh prayed for long life and prosperity to Sheikh. They also spoke about his exemplary life and hundreds of legacies that people are still benefitting.