Rabi al-Thanni 14, 1448 (September 25, 2026)
Assalaamun Alaykum Warahmatullah Taallah Wabarakatuhu
THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF AISHA LEMU
Aisha Bridget Lemu was a renowned British-born author, Islamic writer, religious educator, and one of Nigeria’s most respected educationists. She converted to Islam in 1961 and lived most of her life in Nigeria, dedicating herself to Islamic education, writing, and the empowerment of Muslim women.
She was born in 1940 in Britain and later became widely recognised for her enormous contributions to Islamic education in Nigeria and beyond. Aisha Lemu was the author of numerous books on Islamic Studies and education, many of which were widely used in Nigerian secondary schools.
When she was thirteen years old, Aisha began thinking deeply about religion and started studying different faiths, including Buddhism and Hinduism.
She later studied at the University of London, specifically at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), where she focused on the history and culture of China.
While studying at SOAS, she met Muslim students who introduced her to Islamic books and teachings. Through her studies and interactions with them, she developed a deep interest in Islam and eventually accepted Islam at the Islamic Cultural Centre in 1961.
During her early years as a Muslim, she contributed to the establishment of the Muslim Students’ Association at SOAS and became the organisation’s first secretary at the institution.
After completing her studies at SOAS, Aisha proceeded with postgraduate studies in English. During this period, she met her husband, Sheikh Ahmed Lemu, who was also studying at a college within the University of London and was actively involved in Islamic activities in the London area.
After obtaining her postgraduate qualification, Aisha moved to Kano in August 1966 and began teaching at the School for Arabic Studies, where Sheikh Ahmed Lemu was serving as the principal.
She married Sheikh Ahmed Lemu in April 1968 and became his second wife.
Later, she moved to Sokoto, where she became the principal of the Government Girls’ College.
When Sheikh Ahmed Lemu became the Grand Khadi of the Sharia Court of Appeal in Niger State following its establishment in 1976, Aisha was serving as the principal of a major women’s teachers’ college in Minna, a position she held until 1978.
Together, Aisha and Sheikh Ahmed Lemu established the Islamic Education Trust (IET), an organisation that continues to contribute significantly to education and Islamic development in Nigeria. The organisation operates offices, libraries, publishing activities, primary and secondary schools, as well as institutions dedicated to women’s education.
Aisha Lemu was also involved in the development and review of Islamic education in Nigeria. She served among members of bodies responsible for reviewing Islamic Studies curricula and improving Islamic education at different levels.
In 1985, Aisha Lemu, alongside other dedicated Muslim women, played a major role in establishing the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN). She became its first National President and served in that capacity for four years. Her leadership and vision contributed significantly to the growth and development of Muslim women’s organisations and education in Nigeria.
Aisha Lemu was regarded as one of the foremost educationists and Islamic scholars in Nigeria. Through her writings, teaching, leadership, and dedication to Islamic education, she touched countless lives. Her books became valuable learning materials for generations of students, and her knowledge and wisdom continue to inspire people today.
Aisha Lemu passed away on Saturday, January 5, 2019, in Minna, Niger State, Nigeria, at the age of 79, following a brief illness.
Her death was a great loss to the Muslim community, Nigeria, and the world of Islamic education. We learned so much from her vast knowledge, wisdom, and lifelong dedication to education and Islam.
Her contribution was particularly remarkable because, although she was British-born and embraced Islam later in life, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to spreading knowledge and illuminating the darkness of ignorance through the teachings and values of Islam.
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May Almighty Allah grant her ease, forgive her shortcomings, and grant her the highest place in Al-Jannah. May He continue to bless the family and legacy she left behind.
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Endeavour to recite Surah Al-Kahf (Chapter 18: Verses 1-110).
Juma’ah Mabrouq
