Renowned Muslim scholar and academic, Dr. (Sheikh) Yasir Qadhi, has been conferred with a special “Recognition Award for Lifetime Service to Islam” by Muslim News Nigeria, in acknowledgment of his decades-long contributions to Islamic scholarship, global Da’wah efforts, and his unwavering commitment to the peaceful propagation of Islam.
The announcement was made by publisher of the newspaper and Convener of the MNAwards, Rasheed Abubakar, as part of the 6th edition of the Global Muslim Personalities of the Year 2024/2025 Awards, which annually honours Muslim achievers and institutions in Nigeria and across the world.
According to Abubakar, the Special Recognition Award is reserved for individuals who have consistently demonstrated excellence in Islamic education, thought leadership, and character, impacting the Ummah positively across generations and geographies.
“Dr. Yasir Qadhi’s intellectual depth, global influence, and dedication to balanced Islamic teachings make him a shining example of scholarship rooted in tradition and relevance. From his lectures and books to his engagements on interfaith platforms, he continues to shape minds and guide Muslims, particularly youth, with clarity and wisdom,” Abubakar said.
Sheikh Yasir Qadhi, a graduate of the Islamic University of Madinah and Yale University, is a leading figure in Islamic academia and an advocate for moderation. His efforts in teaching the Seerah (Prophetic biography), Qur’anic sciences, and countering extremism through knowledge have reached millions worldwide.
Abubakar noted that the criteria for the Lifetime Service Award include global impact, consistency in service to the Ummah, educational contribution, Da’wah without hate, and moral integrity, adding that Dr. Yasir Qadhi not only meets these standards but truly embodies them.
“Sheikh Yasir Qadhi has travelled the world, including Nigeria where he was warmly received during the 1Ummah Convention. His balanced approach to Islam, clarity in teaching, and openness to dialogue have earned him love and respect from Muslims across the globe,” Abubakar stated.
The Convener also emphasized that Sheikh Qadhi’s scholarship has been pivotal in shaping contemporary Islamic discourse, particularly among the youth, through his work in Quranic sciences, Hadith, Seerah, and his advocacy against extremism.
Vocal support for people of Gaza, Palestine
Abubakar also praised the scholar’s consistent solidarity with the oppressed, especially his vocal support for the people of Palestine amid the genocidal war on Gaza.
He said, “He continues to speak out against injustice not only in Gaza but also in other regions where Muslims live as minorities and face persecution. That courage, guided by Islamic ethics, is worthy of recognition.”
He added, “We believe those making the Ummah proud should be celebrated while they are alive, not after death. This honour is a token of appreciation and encouragement for Sheikh Qadhi to continue his noble mission of guiding the world with knowledge and compassion.”
The official presentation of the award will take place in Lagos, Nigeria, in early 2026 as part of Muslim News Nigeria’s 7th anniversary celebration.
About Muslim News Nigeria:
Founded in 2018, Muslim News Nigeria is a leading faith-based media platform that reaches an estimated 120–135 million Muslims in Nigeria (approximately 56% of the country’s population). Through consistent reporting, in-depth features and analysis, and the annual #MNAwards, the organisation amplifies Muslim voices and achievements, ensuring fair representation and global engagement. For more information, visit www.muslimnews.com.ng. or Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muslim_News_Nigeria
Finalists for Nigerian Muslim Personalities of the Year (#MNAwards20242025)
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