THE HISTORY OF ISLAM IN NIGERIA

PRIMARY 5 THIRD TERM LESSON NOTES ON HISTORY PRIMARY 5 THIRD TERM

SUBJECT : HISTORY

TERM : THIRD TERM

CLASS : PRIMARY 5

WEEK : WEEK 8

TOPIC :

Islam In Nigeria

• Meaning of Islam
• The founder of Islam
• The origin of Islam
• The people that helped the spread of Islam in Nigeria
• The five pillars of Islam
• Dominant areas where Islam is practiced in Nigeria

PREVIOUS LESSON

Traditional Religions in Nigeria

BEHAVIOURAL OBJECTIVES

By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to :

• Explain the meaning of Islam
• Give the origin of Islam
• State the founder of Islam
• Examine the people that helped spread of Islam in Nigeria
• Mention the five pillars of Islam
• Write the dominant areas where Islam is practiced in Nigeria

LEARNING ACTIVITIES

1. Pupils as a class give the meaning of Islam
2. Pupils in small groups explain the origin of Islam
3. Pupils in pairs mention the founder of Islam
4. Pupils as a class research on the people that helped the spread of Islam in Nigeria
5. Pupils as individuals relate the five pillars of Islam
6. Pupils are a class write the dominant areas where Islam is practiced in Nigeria

EMBEDDED CORE SKILLS

1. Critical thinking and problem solving
2. Digital Literacy
3. Communication and Collaboration

LEARNING RESOURCES

• Audio Visual Resources
• Charts showing the basic concepts of the topic
• YouTube video on the history of Islam

CONTENT

Meaning of Islam

Hello, class! Today, we are going to learn about the meaning of Islam. Islam is a religion that originated in Arabia more than 1,400 years ago. It is one of the largest religions in the world, with millions of followers, and it is the dominant religion in many countries, including Nigeria.

At its core, Islam is a monotheistic religion, which means that Muslims believe in only one God, whom they call Allah. The word “Islam” itself means submission to the will of Allah, and Muslims believe that Allah is the one and only God, who is all-knowing, all-powerful, and merciful.

Muslims follow the teachings of their holy book, the Quran, which is considered to be the word of Allah as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Muhammad is the founder of Islam, and he is considered to be the last prophet sent by Allah to guide humanity. Muslims believe that the Quran contains the sacred and unchangeable words of Allah, and they strive to live their lives according to its teachings

The five pillars of Islam

The Five Pillars of Islam are the basic acts of worship that all Muslims are expected to follow. They are:

1. Declaration of Faith (Shahada): Muslims believe that there is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is his prophet. This declaration is considered the foundation of Islam.
2. Prayer (Salah): Muslims are required to pray five times a day facing the holy city of Mecca. Praying is a way for Muslims to communicate with Allah and seek guidance and blessings.
3. Fasting (Sawm): Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. This involves abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset, as an act of self-discipline, self-reflection, and devotion to Allah.
4. Almsgiving (Zakat): Muslims are required to give a portion of their wealth to those in need, as an act of charity and social responsibility. This is usually done annually and helps to support the less fortunate in the community.
5. Pilgrimage (Hajj): Muslims who are physically and financially able are expected to make a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca at least once in their lifetime. The Hajj is considered one of the most important acts of worship in Islam and involves a series of rituals that commemorate the life of the Prophet Muhammad and his family.

In addition to these Five Pillars, Muslims are also expected to follow certain moral and ethical principles, such as being honest, kind, and just, and treating others with respect and compassion.

Islam has a rich history, with many achievements in the fields of science, art, literature, and philosophy. It has also had a significant impact on the culture, society, and politics of many countries around the world, including Nigeria

Islam teaches its followers to strive for inner peace through submission to the will of Allah, as well as promoting peace in society through compassion, justice, and mutual respect among people of different backgrounds and beliefs. Muslims are encouraged to resolve conflicts peacefully and to promote harmony and cooperation within their communities and beyond.

However, it’s also important to note that like other religions, Islam has been interpreted and practiced in different ways by different individuals and groups throughout history. There have been instances where some individuals or groups have used Islam to justify acts of violence or extremism, but these actions go against the true teachings of Islam.

It’s important to have a nuanced understanding of Islam and not to make generalizations or assumptions based on the actions of a few individuals or groups. As responsible learners, it’s important to seek accurate information and strive to understand the complexities of different religions, including Islam, in a respectful and informed manner. It’s also important to engage in open-minded dialogue and promote mutual understanding and tolerance among people of different faiths or beliefs

1. Meaning of Islam:

• Islam is a monotheistic religion that originated in Arabia over 1,400 years ago.
• Muslims believe in one God, Allah, and follow the teachings of the Quran, which is considered the word of Allah as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
• The word “Islam” means submission to the will of Allah, and Muslims strive to live their lives according to its teachings.

2. Origin of Islam:

• Islam originated in the Arabian Peninsula in the 7th century CE, in what is now modern-day Saudi Arabia.
• The Prophet Muhammad received revelations from Allah, which were recorded in the Quran.
• Islam spread rapidly throughout Arabia and beyond, through the efforts of the early Muslim community and the military conquests of Arab armies.

3. Founder of Islam:

• The Prophet Muhammad is considered the founder of Islam, as he received revelations from Allah and established the first Muslim community in Medina in 622 CE.
• Muhammad is also considered the last prophet sent by Allah to guide humanity, and his teachings are considered the final revelation of Allah to humanity.

4. People that helped the spread of Islam in Nigeria:

• Islamic scholars and traders played a significant role in the spread of Islam in Nigeria.
• Scholars, known as Islamic missionaries or teachers, traveled to various regions in Nigeria to spread the teachings of Islam and establish Islamic schools (madrasas) to educate local populations about Islamic beliefs and practices.
• Islamic traders, who traveled along the trans-Saharan trade routes, also played a role in spreading Islam in Nigeria as they interacted with local communities and shared their faith.
• Some influential Muslim leaders and rulers in Nigeria, such as the Sokoto Caliphate in the 19th century, actively promoted Islam and encouraged its adoption among their subjects.
• The peaceful coexistence of Islam with existing local cultures and traditions in Nigeria, and the appeal of its teachings to different ethnic groups, also contributed to the spread of Islam in the country

It’s important to note that the spread of Islam in Nigeria occurred over a long period of time and was influenced by various factors, including cultural, economic, and social dynamics. The history of Islam in Nigeria is complex and diverse, with a rich heritage of Islamic traditions and practices that continue to shape the country’s religious and cultural landscape today.

Evaluation

1. What does the word “Islam” mean? a) Peace b) Submission to the will of Allah c) Worship of multiple gods d) Fasting
2. Where did Islam originate? a) Arabia b) Egypt c) India d) China
3. Who is considered the founder of Islam? a) Jesus b) Muhammad c) Moses d) Abraham
4. What is the holy book of Islam called? a) Torah b) Bible c) Quran d) Vedas
5. How did Islam spread beyond Arabia? a) Through military conquests b) Through trade and commerce c) Through peaceful missionary efforts d) All of the above
6. Who were the people that helped spread Islam in Nigeria? a) Islamic scholars and teachers b) Christian missionaries c) Hindu traders d) Buddhist monks
7. Which Islamic empire had a significant impact on the spread of Islam in Nigeria in the 19th century? a) Ottoman Empire b) Mughal Empire c) Abbasid Caliphate d) Sokoto Caliphate
8. What is the final revelation of Allah to humanity, according to Muslims? a) Bible b) Torah c) Vedas d) Quran
9. Which of the following is NOT one of the Five Pillars of Islam? a) Prayer (Salah) b) Fasting (Sawm) c) Charity (Zakat) d) Pilgrimage (Hajj)
10. What is the main message of Islam? a) Worship multiple gods b) Follow your desires c) Submit to the will of Allah and live a righteous life d) Engage in violence to spread the faith

Five Pillars of Islam:

1. Shahada: The declaration of faith, which involves bearing witness that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is his prophet.
2. Salah: The obligatory prayers performed five times a day facing the Kaaba in Mecca.
3. Zakat: The giving of alms or charity to the poor and needy as a form of purification and solidarity with the less fortunate.
4. Sawm: Fasting during the holy month of Ramadan, which involves abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset.
5. Hajj: The pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, which is required of Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey at least once in their lifetime.

Dominant areas where Islam is practiced in Nigeria:

1. Northern Region: Islam is the dominant religion in the northern region of Nigeria, which includes states such as Sokoto, Kano, Katsina, Borno, and Kaduna.
2. Middle Belt Region: Islam is also practiced in some areas of the Middle Belt region, which includes states such as Plateau, Nasarawa, and Benue, among others.
3. Western Region: Islam has a significant presence in some states in the southwestern region of Nigeria, including Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, and Osun, where there is a sizable Muslim population.
4. Eastern Region: While Christianity is the dominant religion in the southeastern region of Nigeria, there are also Muslim communities in states such as Adamawa, Taraba, and Gombe.
5. Urban Areas: Islam is practiced in various urban areas across Nigeria, including major cities such as Abuja, Lagos, Kano, and Kaduna, where there are diverse religious communities and significant Muslim populations.

It’s important to note that the practice of Islam in Nigeria is diverse and influenced by local cultures, traditions, and historical factors. The above list is a general overview and may not capture all the nuances of Islam’s presence in different regions of Nigeria

Evaluation

1. Which of the following is NOT one of the five pillars of Islam? a) Shahada b) Salah c) Tithing d) Sawm
2. What is the Arabic term for the declaration of faith, which is the first pillar of Islam? a) Shahada b) Salah c) Sawm d) Zakat
3. Which pillar of Islam involves the performance of obligatory prayers five times a day? a) Salah b) Sawm c) Zakat d) Hajj
4. What is the term for the obligatory fasting during the month of Ramadan, which is the fourth pillar of Islam? a) Zakat b) Sawm c) Salah d) Hajj
5. What is the term for the giving of alms or charity to the poor and needy, which is the third pillar of Islam? a) Hajj b) Salah c) Sawm d) Zakat
6. What is the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, which is the fifth pillar of Islam, called? a) Hajj b) Salah c) Sawm d) Zakat
7. Which region of Nigeria is known for being the dominant area where Islam is practiced? a) Eastern Region b) Middle Belt Region c) Western Region d) Northern Region
8. Which of the following Nigerian states is known for having a significant Muslim population? a) Lagos b) Enugu c) Anambra d) Cross River
9. Which major city in Nigeria is known for having a significant Muslim population? a) Abuja b) Port Harcourt c) Ibadan d) Onitsha
10. What are the five pillars of Islam? a) Shahada, Salah, Sawm, Zakat, Hajj b) Worship, Charity, Fasting, Prayer, Pilgrimage c) Testimony of faith, Prayer, Fasting, Almsgiving, Pilgrimage d) Tithing, Fasting, Pilgrimage, Charity, Testimony of faith

Lesson Plan Presentation: Topic – Islam in Nigeria

Grade Level: Primary 4

I. Introduction (5 minutes)

• Greet the students and engage them in a brief discussion on what they know about religion and if they are aware of any religions practiced in Nigeria.
• Introduce the topic of Islam and its significance in Nigeria.
• State the objectives of the lesson: To understand the meaning of Islam, its origin, founder, and the people who helped spread it in Nigeria. Also, to learn about the five pillars of Islam and the dominant areas where it is practiced in Nigeria.

II. Meaning of Islam (10 minutes)

• Define Islam as a monotheistic religion that originated in the Arabian Peninsula and is based on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
• Discuss the key beliefs of Islam, including the belief in one God (Allah), the importance of prayer, the concept of fasting during the month of Ramadan, the obligation of giving alms (Zakat), and the significance of the pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj).

III. Origin of Islam (5 minutes)

• Explain that Islam was founded in the 7th century CE in Arabia by Prophet Muhammad, who is considered the last prophet in a long line of prophets including Adam, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus.
• Discuss the historical context of Arabia during the time of Prophet Muhammad, including the polytheistic beliefs and social conditions of the society.

IV. Founder of Islam (5 minutes)

• Provide more information about Prophet Muhammad as the founder of Islam, including his early life, his revelations, and his role as the final prophet according to Islamic teachings.
• Discuss the significance of the Quran, the holy scripture of Islam, which Muslims believe to be the word of God revealed to Prophet Muhammad.

V. People that helped the spread of Islam in Nigeria (5 minutes)

• Introduce the history of Islam in Nigeria, which dates back to the 11th century CE through trade routes and interactions with North African and Middle Eastern traders.
• Mention key historical figures who helped spread Islam in Nigeria, such as Usman dan Fodio, Sheikh El-Mukhtar, and other scholars, warriors, and traders who played a significant role in the conversion and establishment of Islam in different regions of Nigeria.

VI. Five Pillars of Islam (10 minutes)

• Explain the five pillars of Islam: Shahada (testimony of faith), Salah (prayer), Sawm (fasting), Zakat (almsgiving), and Hajj (pilgrimage).
• Discuss each pillar in detail, including its significance, purpose, and practices associated with it.

VII. Dominant areas where Islam is practiced in Nigeria (5 minutes)

• Identify and discuss the regions in Nigeria where Islam is predominantly practiced, such as the Northern region, including states like Sokoto, Kano, Kaduna, Borno, and others.
• Mention the Middle Belt region, which also has a significant Muslim population, and discuss the cultural and historical factors that contributed to the spread of Islam in these areas.

VIII. Conclusion (5 minutes)

• Recap the main points covered in the lesson, including the meaning of Islam, its origin, founder, and the people who helped spread it in Nigeria.
• Summarize the five pillars of Islam and the dominant areas where it is practiced in Nigeria.
• Encourage students to ask questions for clarification and provide additional resources for further learning about Islam in Nigeria.

IX. Assessment (5 minutes)

• Conduct a brief quiz or discussion to assess the students’ understanding of the lesson, including key concepts, historical figures, and the five pillars of Islam.
• Provide feedback and address any misconceptions or questions raised by the students

X. Homework (2 minutes)

• Assign a relevant homework task, such as reading a short article or watching a video on Islam in Nigeria, and asking students to write a reflection or summary of what they have learned
• Provide clear instructions and due date for the homework.

XI. Materials and Resources

• Whiteboard or blackboard
• Markers or chalk
• Visual aids, such as maps, pictures, or diagrams related to the topic
• Relevant books, articles, or online resources about Islam in Nigeria
• Assessment materials, such as quiz questions or discussion prompts

XII. Differentiation

• Consider the different learning styles and abilities of the students and adapt the lesson accordingly.
• Use visual aids, gestures, and real-life examples to cater to visual and kinesthetic learners.
• Provide opportunities for group discussions and peer interactions to promote social and verbal skills.
• Offer additional support or extension activities for students who need extra help or challenge.

XIII. Closure

• Summarize the main points covered in the lesson and highlight the significance of Islam in Nigeria.
• Reinforce the importance of tolerance, respect, and understanding towards different religions and cultures.
• Thank the students for their participation and encourage them to continue learning about the diverse cultural and religious heritage of Nigeria.

Weekly Assessment /Test  

1. What is the meaning of Islam? a. A form of government b. A religion c. A language d. A type of food
2. Where did Islam originate? a. Nigeria b. Saudi Arabia c. Egypt d. India
3. Who is considered the founder of Islam? a. Muhammad b. Jesus c. Moses d. Buddha
4. Who were some of the people that helped spread Islam in Nigeria? a. Umar Ibn Khattab b. Mansa Musa c. Usman dan Fodio d. Nelson Mandela
5. What are the Five Pillars of Islam? a. Belief in Allah, fasting, prayer, pilgrimage, charity b. Belief in God, meditation, fasting, charity, worship c. Belief in Jesus, prayer, pilgrimage, charity, fasting d. Belief in multiple gods, meditation, worship, charity, pilgrimage
6. What are the dominant areas where Islam is practiced in Nigeria? a. Northern Nigeria b. Western Nigeria c. Eastern Nigeria d. Southern Nigeria
7. What is the significance of the Five Pillars of Islam? a. They are the core beliefs of Islam b. They are the holy texts of Islam c. They are the religious leaders of Islam d. They are the historical events of Islam
8. How did Islam spread in Nigeria? a. Through trade and commerce b. Through military conquests c. Through colonization d. Through migration
9. Who was Usman dan Fodio? a. A famous Nigerian musician b. A renowned poet c. A political leader and Islamic scholar d. A famous athlete
10. Why is it important to learn about Islam in Nigeria? a. To understand the cultural and religious diversity of Nigeria b. To become a Muslim c. To convert others to Islam d. To promote religious intolerance

Note: The lesson plan can be adjusted based on the available time, class dynamics, and specific curriculum requirements. It is important to use age-appropriate language, engage the students through interactive activities, and create a positive and inclusive learning environment