Renowned Islamic scholar and leader of the Tijjaniyyah movement in Nigeria, Sheikh Dahiru Usman Bauchi, has passed away today, Thursday, November 27, 2025. He was 98 years old.
Born on June 29, 1927, Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi devoted his life to Islamic scholarship from a young age. He memorized the Qur’an under the guidance of his father, Alhaji Usman, who was himself a Tijani muqaddam.
Over the years, he furthered his Islamic education under notable scholars including Shaykh Tijani Usman Zangon-Bare-bari, Shaykh Abubakar Atiku, and Shaykh Abdulqadir Zaria, eventually receiving the Tijjaniyyah Tariqah.
Until his passing, he served as the deputy chairman of the Fatwa Committee of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), playing a significant role in issuing religious guidance for the Muslim community.
Sheikh Dahiru Bauchi was also well known for his influence across West Africa. In 2009, he was detained in Saudi Arabia during pilgrimage, an incident linked to doctrinal tensions among Nigerian Islamic groups at the time.
The scholar, who fathered more than 80 children, was married to the daughter of prominent 20th-century Tijani leader Sheikh Ibrahim Niasse. Their marriage was officiated by Sheikh Baba Laminu Niasse at the Ibrahim Niasse Mosque in Kaolack, Senegal.
His death marks the end of an era for the Tijjaniyyah community, with tributes expected from religious leaders, students, and followers across Nigeria and beyond.