03/07/2026
HISTORY OF THE TIJANIYYAH MUSLIM STUDENTS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (TIMSAN):
"Knowledge is the foundation of identity."
Many members know TIMSAN today, but only a few know how it began. To promote awareness and preserve our history, below is the history of the Tijaniyyah Muslim Students Association of Nigeria (TIMSAN) as contained in the association's official documents.
HISTORY
The Tijaniyyah Muslim Students’ Association of Nigeria (TIMSAN) is a platform for Muslim students in tertiary institutions across Nigeria who adhere to the Tariqah Tijaniyyah. TIMSAN was incorporated in 2011 by the Corporate Affairs Commission of Nigeria. Its establishment was due to the need to bring together Tijaniyyah adherents on campuses to identify and strengthen our brotherhood, as well as provide opportunities to continue our congregational litanies on campus alongside other similar activities.
This brought together some of our mentors, including Sheikh Suleiman, Sheikh Abdullah Okene, Barr. Suleiman Dawud, Muqadam Adnan Adeyemi, Dr. Tijani Sh*ttu, and others, regardless of their individual Zawiyyahs, to establish what is now known as TIMSAN.
Previously, there were several associations across the country with Sufi doctrines and ideologies such as Muslim Sufi Movement (MSM), ATSAN, TIFSON, FAMSA, etc., on various campuses. However, at the 2012 International Organization of Tijaniyyah Brotherhood (IOTB)—a body established by Imam Hassan Cisse—annual conference, all the associations agreed to adopt the name TIMSAN, while IOTB would serve as the graduate and mother body of TIMSAN.
Since adopting the name TIMSAN, the association has expanded to several tertiary institutions across Nigeria. Presently, TIMSAN is structured into Zones, States, and Local Zawiyyahs (corresponding to the respective institutions).
MISSION:
To revive and maintain Islamic virtues among Muslim students and encourage intellectual and religious development through the promotion of love for the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (SAW), together with the traditional and spiritual teachings of the Qur'an and Hadith.
To reorient the public, especially the Tijaniyyun, on the authentic ideology and doctrine of pristine Sufism (Tasawwuf), particularly the Tijaniyyah, against the negative image portrayed by some pseudo-Sufis.
VISION:
To uphold the pristine practices of our Beloved Master (SAW) and to unleash the hidden leadership traits and potentials of our members.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:
1. To provide a special forum to educate the Muslim Ummah on the love of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), his household, his companions, the saintly servants of Allah, and all Muslims in general.
2. To educate our members and students in general in Islam and the Tariqah Tijaniyyah through lectures, seminars, symposia, publications, and discussions.
3. To promote mutual understanding, cooperation, and tolerance among the diverse tribes, beliefs, and ideals of Nigeria.
4. To observe the fundamental principles of the Tijaniyyah Brotherhood in accordance with the teachings of Islam.
5. To uplift members towards attaining spiritual purity.
6. To strengthen friendship and companionship among followers of the Tijaniyyah.
7. To promote love and affection for the Holy Prophet (SAW), his companions, and the Awliya'ullah.
8. To pursue educational objectives in Shari'ah, Sufiyyah, Ma'arifah, and other fields of study.
9. To imbibe and display good moral character.
10. To provide avenues for smooth academic progress among members.
PROGRAMS:
1. Maulud
- Maulud Nabiyyi (SAW) in Rabi'ul Awwal.
- Maulud of Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani (RTA) in Safar.
- Maulud of Sheikh Ibrahim Niass (RTA) in Rajab.
2. Ziyarah
- Internal Ziyarah.
- External Ziyarah.
3. Lectures and Seminars
References:
Tijaniyyah Muslim Students Association of Nigeria. (n.d.). TIMSAN Constitution (National Body). Unpublished constitution.
Tijaniyyah Muslim Students Association, Ahmadu Bello University Chapter. (n.d.). TIMSAN ABU Constitution. Unpublished constitution.
Tijaniyyah Muslim Students Association Media Crew. (n.d.). Wasiyatul Ikhwani Annual Magazine. TIMSAN Media Crew.
Compiled and Shared by:
Aliyu Usman Muhammed (Hy Dharr)
Positions Held in TIMSAN
- Public Relations Officer (PRO), TIMSAN Benue State Chapter (2018 – Date)
- Vice Muqaddam I, TIMSAN GSU Chapter (2021/2022 Session)
- Secretary, Media and Publicity, TIMSAN GSU Chapter (2022/2023 Session)
- Public Relations Officer (PRO), TIMSAN GSU Chapter (2024/2025 Session)
"Knowledge preserved is a legacy for generations to come."