Why it matters
The birth anniversary of Imam Mahdi (AS) is one of the most significant occasions in Islam, particularly for Shi’a Muslims, at a time when injustice, oppression, genocide, imperialism, and hegemonic policies, especially by Western powers and the Zionist regime, are escalating across the globe.
The big picture
Imam Mahdi (AS), from the progeny of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), is believed to reappear at a time when the world is filled with injustice, to establish justice and equity worldwide. His birth anniversary serves as a symbol of hope and resistance for oppressed nations and communities.
State of play
The ceremony was held on Tuesday evening and continued into the night.
Youth groups affiliated with Intizar al-Mahdi participated actively in the event.
Religious recitations, symbolic martial performances, and speeches marked the occasion.
What he’s saying
Sheikh Ibrahim Zakzaky, Leader of the Islamic Movement in Nigeria, described the birth of Imam Mahdi (AS) as a source of hope and inspiration for all humanity.
He emphasized that:
Resisting oppression and corruption is a fundamental duty of those awaiting the reappearance of Imam Mahdi (AS).
Supporting oppressed peoples worldwide is a core responsibility of believers.
Referring to current global developments, Sheikh Zakzaky said Iran’s resilience against its enemies stems from its reliance on faith in God, spiritual foundations, justice, and perseverance, unlike the United States and its allies, whom he said rely solely on material power.
Key points
Qur’anic recitations opened the ceremony.
Youth groups performed symbolic martial displays.
The event concluded with a keynote address by Sheikh Zakzaky.
Themes of justice, resistance, and spiritual strength dominated the program.
Go deeper
Imam Muhammad al-Mahdi (AS) was born on the 15th of Sha’ban in the year 255 AH. According to widely cited narrations, the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated that the world would not end until a man from his Ahlulbayt—named Muhammad al-Mahdi—reappears to fill the earth with justice and equity, just as it had been filled with oppression and injustice.
Bottom Line
For Shi’a Muslims in Nigeria and beyond, the birth anniversary of Imam Mahdi (AS) is not only a religious commemoration but a reaffirmation of faith in justice, resistance, and the eventual triumph of the oppressed.
Hossein Vaez - ahmad shirzadian
