Nigeria Appoints Professor Ahmad Bello Dogarawa as New Sharia Council Secretary-General ISLAM GLOBAL NEWS | AFRICA By Islam Global News Editorial Desk KADUNA, NIGERIA | November 8, 2026 The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria (SCSN) has appointed Professor Ahmad Bello Dogarawa as its new Secretary-General, bringing an experienced academic and Islamic scholar into a key leadership position within the country's Muslim community. The appointment was announced on November 7 in an official statement issued by the Council's President, Sheikh Professor Bashir Aliyu Umar. Professor Dogarawa succeeds the late Mallam Nafiu Baba Ahmad, who previously served as the Council's Secretary-General. Who Is Professor Ahmad Bello Dogarawa? Professor Dogarawa is a Professor of Accounting at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Nigeria. His academic and Islamic scholarship interests include: - Islamic jurisprudence. - Islamic economics. - Non-interest banking and finance. - Social development. - National peace-building. He holds a PhD in Accounting and Finance from Ahmadu Bello University and a Master's degree in Banking and Finance from Bayero University, Kano. He is also a Fellow of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria and a Certified Management Trainer. Strengthening Islamic Institutions According to the Council, the appointment is intended to strengthen its institutional leadership and advance its work through scholarship, advocacy and constructive engagement in national affairs. The organisation also highlighted Professor Dogarawa's previous contributions to Islamic scholarship, institutional development and discussions promoting peaceful coexistence. His experience in university administration, governance, policy development and professional training is expected to support his new responsibilities. Islamic Economics and Non-Interest Finance One notable aspect of the appointment is Professor Dogarawa's academic background in Islamic economics and non-interest finance. These fields are important to the development of Islamic financial institutions, ethical business practices and financial services that seek to comply with Islamic principles. His experience could contribute to discussions about financial inclusion, economic development and the role of Islamic institutions in Nigerian society. However, the Council has not yet announced specific new programmes or policy initiatives under his leadership. Council Calls for Community Support The Supreme Council for Shariah in Nigeria has called on Muslim scholars, Islamic organisations, traditional institutions and members of the wider Muslim community to cooperate with the new Secretary-General. The Council also paid tribute to his predecessor, the late Mallam Nafiu Baba Ahmad, recognising his contributions to Islam and humanity. What This Appointment Means Leadership changes in major religious institutions can influence educational activities, scholarly discussions, institutional cooperation and community engagement. Professor Dogarawa's combination of academic experience and Islamic scholarship provides a significant background for his new role. The impact of his appointment will become clearer as the Council announces its future priorities and activities. Islam Global News will continue following developments in Nigeria's Islamic institutions, religious scholarship and Muslim community affairs. This is an original editorial report prepared by Islam Global News using the Council's official announcement and published reporting. Future plans have not been attributed to the appointee without an official announcement.