By Waziri Isa Adam (Group Editor-in-chief)
A renowned Professor with Ahmadu Bello University, Professor Abdullahi Danladi has described Qasem Soleimani as a legendary figure in the Islamic world, whose legacy continues to inspire and motivate resistance movements across the globe.
In a paper titled “Qasem Soleimani: A Role Model for Islamic Resistance”, Professor Danladi presented a comprehensive analysis of Soleimani’s life, legacy, and contributions to the global Islamic movement. The paper was presented at a specialized meeting organized by the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Nigeria, to commemorate the fifth anniversary of Soleimani’s martyrdom.
The event, which was held on January 3, 2025, brought together scholars, researchers, and stakeholders to reflect on Soleimani’s enduring impact on the global Islamic movement.
January 3, 2025, marks the fifth anniversary of the martyrdom of Qasem Soleimani, a renowned Iranian military commander who played a pivotal role in shaping the Islamic world’s resistance against oppression and tyranny.
Soleimani’s life was a testament to his unwavering commitment to the cause of Islamic resistance. Born in 1957 in Rabor, Kerman Province, Iran, he joined the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) shortly after the 1979 Iranian Revolution.
Soleimani’s rise to prominence was marked by his leadership of the Quds Force, an elite unit specializing in unconventional warfare and intelligence operations. Under his command, the Quds Force played a crucial role in supporting resistance movements across the Middle East.
One of Soleimani’s most notable achievements was his leadership in the fight against ISIS. He played a crucial role in organizing the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) in Iraq and coordinating military campaigns in both Iraq and Syria.
Soleimani’s strategy helped reclaim cities like Tikrit, Fallujah, and Mosul from ISIS, marking significant victories for Islamic resistance against extremist threats.
He also defended major Shi’a shrines in Iraq and Syria, preventing their destruction by extremist groups. This achievement resonated deeply with Muslims worldwide.
Beyond his military achievements, Soleimani was a master strategist who understood the importance of building alliances and fostering unity among resistance movements.
He provided logistical, financial, and strategic support to Hezbollah in Lebanon and supported Sunni resistance groups in Palestine.
Soleimani’s commitment to Islamic unity and resistance earned him widespread respect and admiration across the Middle East.
He was celebrated as a hero in Iran and among allied groups, while his adversaries, including the United States and Israel, viewed him as a threat to their interests.
On January 3, 2020, Soleimani’s life was cut short in a cowardly US drone strike near Baghdad International Airport.
His martyrdom sent shockwaves across the region and sparked widespread outrage and condemnation. World leaders and ordinary citizens alike mourned his loss.
Despite his physical absence, Soleimani’s legacy continues to inspire and motivate resistance movements across the world. His martyrdom has become a rallying cry for those committed to fighting against oppression and tyranny.
As the world marks the fifth anniversary of Soleimani’s martyrdom, it is essential to reflect on his enduring impact on the global Islamic movement. His commitment to Islamic unity, resistance, and justice continues to inspire a new generation of leaders and activists.