Three Qualities Young Scholars Should Learn from Sheikh Habeebullah — Abdul-Ganiyy Raji

A Abdul-Ganiyy Raji has highlighted three key qualities he believes young Islamic scholars and emerging Imams should emulate from the Mudeer of Markaz, Sheikh Habeebullah Adam Abdullahi Al-Ilory, describing him as a rare example of integrity, learning, and principled leadership in the Nigerian Muslim community.

Speaking at an event, Raji said Sheikh Habeebullah, popularly known as Mudirul Markaz, embodies virtues that are becoming increasingly scarce among contemporary scholars. He noted that although many qualities could be listed, three stand out as both exemplary and essential for younger clerics seeking guidance.

Raji identified contentment as the first and perhaps most striking attribute of the Mudeer. According to him, Sheikh Habeebullah could easily have become “one of the richest scholars in Nigeria or even Africa,” but chose a life of modesty and principle. He stressed that despite criticism from different quarters, no one has ever accused the Mudeer of financial misconduct, dishonesty, or short-changing others. This, he said, is a rare trait in an era where religious leadership is often associated with material pursuit.

The second quality, he said, is the Mudeer’s deep love for knowledge. Raji pointed out that although some critics claim Sheikh Habeebullah did not pursue formal studies beyond the Sanawiyyah level, his depth of thought, intellectual clarity, and scholarly contributions contradict such claims. “He speaks with the authority of someone who has mastered learning,” Raji said, adding that young scholars must follow his example by becoming lifelong learners, constantly seeking knowledge regardless of their formal qualifications.

Raji also emphasized Sheikh Habeebullah’s longstanding commitment to countering extremist and divisive ideologies within Muslim communities. He said the Mudeer’s firm stance against foreign, imported doctrines that threaten local unity has earned him opposition from some groups. According to him, Sheikh Habeebullah consistently urges Muslims to recognize their Nigerian and African identities and to reject ideas that tear communities apart. This principled courage, Raji said, remains one of the Mudeer’s most admirable qualities.

He explained that many of the attacks against the Mudeer stem not from personal grievances or financial issues, but from his refusal to tolerate doctrines that fuel division and extremism. “He has never asked anyone for money,” Raji stressed. “They hate him only because he stands against what threatens our unity.”

Although Raji noted that he had prepared additional points on Sheikh Habeebullah’s leadership, he said time constraints prevented him from sharing more. He concluded by praying for the Mudeer’s continued health, longevity, and service to Islamic and Arabic education in Nigeria.

Raji prayed that Allah strengthens the renowned scholar to keep contributing to the growth of Islam, nurturing future generations, and preserving unity within the Muslim community.