Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky, the leader of Nigeria’s Islamic Movement, has advocated drawing inspiration from Iran’s Islamic Revolution, asserting that Africa should look to Iran as a model for ideological guidance.
Zakzaky, currently in Iran, emphasized the continuation of the Islamic Revolution under the leadership of Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader.
In a recent meeting with Alireza Araafi, director of religious seminaries in Iran, Zakzaky highlighted the enduring impact of the Islamic Revolution and its global influence.
He emphasized the expansion of the Islamic Movement in regions including Africa, Europe, and North America, mobilizing Shiite communities worldwide.
Often referred to as Nigeria’s Ayatollah, Zakzaky leads the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, a movement deeply inspired by the Iranian Revolution and opposing the Nigerian government’s authority.
He presently faces imprisonment on various charges, with the government aiming to curb the movement’s revolutionary activities.
During a previous meeting held in October, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei expressed solidarity with Zakzaky, acknowledging the growth of the Islamic Movement in various continents.
Khamenei’s support extends to Nigeria’s Shiite community and includes recent discussions centred on energy cooperation to address Nigeria’s energy challenges.
The support is evident in recent energy talks, focusing on cooperation to address energy challenges and seeking the Nigerian government’s collaboration.