Why it matters:
Ayatollah Imam Khomeini reshaped global dynamics by leading a movement that ousted Iran’s Western-backed regime in 1979. His establishment of an Islamic Republic inspired movements worldwide to advocate for justice.
The big picture:
Ayatollah Khomeini, the founder of the Islamic Revolution in Iran, is very popular among African nations because of his thoughts and beliefs. For this reason, the anniversary of his death is commemorated every year in many African countries. Imam Khomeini's anti-oppression thoughts have led African nations to accept him as a hero in the fight against oppression and as their symbol and role model.
What they’re saying:
Professor Abdullahi Danladi, head of the Resource Forum of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, noted how, before Iran's Islamic Revolution, Nigerian students were largely influenced by Western lifestyles, moving away from Islamic teachings; then, after the Revolution, the Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSSN) sent a delegation, led by Sheikh Zakzaky, to Iran in 1979. Their return and dissemination of Imam Khomeini’s message sparked a renewed interest in Islamic teachings among Nigerian youth.
Alhaj Nasiru Danladi Abubakar, representing Sheikh Yakubu Abdu Ningi, highlighted how Khomeini’s Revolution sparked increased enthusiasm for Islamic ideology among Nigerians. He noted that many youth—including non-Muslims—began rejecting Western influences perceived as corrupt.
Maimuna Abdullahi, a female Islamic scholar, also participated in the conference, discussing Imam Khomeini’s humbleness, devotion to God, and commitment to family. She urged attendees to emulate his values.
Professor Bala Abdullahi, an activist and senior lecturer at Aliko Dangote University, stated that Imam Khomeini’s struggles conveyed a clear message of Islamic awakening and revivalism, shaping modern discourse on faith and social engagement.
In a brief interview with Iran Press, Rahamtu Abdulaziz, a senior lecturer at the Federal College of Education Kano, noted that Imam Khomeini’s influence extended beyond Iran, inspiring movements in three Sahelian countries to resist Western political influence.
"It was Imam Khomeini’s revolution that encouraged the people of Niger Republic to stand against Western imperialism," she said. "They successfully expelled American and French forces from their countries and overthrew oppressive governments."
Go deeper:
Imam Khomeini, an Inspiration for Africa
Hossein Amiri
