CHICAGO—The repast celebrating the life of Minister Abdul Akbar Muhammad was a poignant and unforgettable tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to service, unity, and the upliftment of humanity. Held in the gymnasium of Muhammad University of Islam on the grounds of The National Center, headquarters of the Nation of Islam, the gathering followed his Janazah (funeral) services on March 27. The atmosphere was one of reverence and joy, as attendees reflected on the profound impact of Minister Akbar’s life.
The gymnasium was transformed into a regal setting, with black and gold decorations symbolizing the dignity and grace with which Minister Akbar lived. His favorite jazz standards played softly in the background, while a photo exhibition on a large screen chronicled his extraordinary journey.
Tributes poured in from across the globe, including heartfelt messages from Doha, Tunisia, and Tanzania. One particularly moving tribute came from Dr. Arikana Chihombori Quao, a Zimbabwean diplomat and activist, who praised Minister Akbar for his lifelong advocacy for Black unity. “He was a bridge between continents, a man who connected us to our roots and inspired us to dream of a united Africa,” she said.
The program was hosted by Student Minister Jamil Muhammad, who opened the event with a warm greeting. “We are here to celebrate a life well-lived, a touchstone in our history,” he said. “Minister Akbar was a historian of the first rank, a man who taught us how to make history while honoring it.”
Minister Akbar’s daughter, Sister Germaine Prescott-Harris, delivered a deeply personal and emotional tribute. “To the world, he was a leader, a historian, and a soldier. But to me, he was simply Dad,” she shared. Sis. Germaine recounted stories of her father’s unwavering support, from attending her graduations to naming her granddaughter. “He always sent me postcards from around the world, reminding me that no matter where he was, he was thinking of me,” she said, her voice breaking with emotion. She concluded with a heartfelt prayer, thanking Allah (God) for her father’s life and legacy.
Another powerful moment came from Sis. Nafisatu Bukar Muhammad, Minister Akbar’s wife, who spoke of his teachings and their shared journey. “He taught me about the politics of the world and the importance of service,” she said. “He was a wonderful man, and I learned so much from him.”
Bro. Jihad Muhammad, one of Minister Akbar’s sons, reflected on the lessons his father imparted. “He taught me leadership, humility, and the importance of connecting with people,” he said. “My father was an exceptional man, and his principles will guide me for the rest of my life.”
Hadiya Claxton, Special Envoy for St. Kitts and Nevis, shared her family’s deep connection to Minister Akbar. “He was a giant in the service of the global African community,” she said. “His vision of Pan-Africanism was not just a dream—it became a force that connected us across borders, oceans, and generations. My family’s first visit to West Africa was because of his invitation and encouragement, and those moments shaped our sense of belonging and connection. His legacy is a beacon that continues to inspire us all.”
Upon the news of his passing, family members of Minister Jabril Muhammad, a close friend of Min. Akbar and pioneer of the Nation of Islam, sent a letter to express their gratitude for the life of such a man. “With profound gratitude for Almighty God Allah’s many blessings, the family of Min. Jabril Muhammad joins the Nation of Islam and the global community in commemorating the extraordinary life and transition of our beloved brother, Minister Abdul Akbar Muhammad,” the letter from Sis. Ati Cushmeer on behalf of the family stated in part.
“To us, he was more than a towering figure on the world stage; he was a humble, down-to-earth brother and friend to our father and one of the companions of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. Although both were pioneers in the Nation, their bond was sealed in a sacred moment of history—as foundational members of the rebuilding of the Nation of Islam. By the will of Almighty God Allah, the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan attracted some of the best strategic and intellectual minds to rebuild the Nation. Bro. Akbar was in that number, but he stands out as one of those who would form the pillars that the Nation of Islam stands on today.”
Sis. Samimah Aziz, another of Minister Akbar’s daughters, offered a heartfelt perspective on her father’s final days and the importance of caring for elders. “My father was diagnosed with vascular dementia, and we put together a care team to ensure he was well taken care of,” she said. “It’s so important for us to think about how we care for our seniors. My father’s strength and courage were evident even in his final days, and I am eternally grateful for the support of the Nation of Islam and our family during that time.”
Eric Grier, one of Min. Akbar’s grandsons (son of his late daughter Madinah), recalled some life lessons his grandfather taught him. “I owe the type of life that I have to my grandfather. He taught me the importance of community, my family, going back to Africa and having a worldly perspective.”
Min. Akbar’s granddaughter, Sis. Naeesa Aziz, thanked her grandfather for encouraging her to write about her life experiences. “I’m a writer today because of him. He always encouraged us to be curious about the world and to be informed about everything that’s going on in the world.” Following in the footsteps of her grandfather as a world traveler, she added, “and the final thing he taught me was to always sign up for the airlines’ mileage program to get your miles when you fly,” she laughed.
Other notable figures, including Flavor Flav of Public Enemy, shared fond memories with The Final Call of Minister Akbar’s hospitality during a trip to Ghana. “He was like a leader to me, always humble and full of wisdom,” the hip-hop legend said.
Student Minister and Student Imam Abdul Salaam Muhammad of Mosque No. 6 in Baltimore also shared a heartfelt memory with The Final Call of his first encounter with Minister Akbar. “I remember meeting him in Baltimore in 1990. He was auctioning a record from Black Family Day 1974, and I kept bidding on it. He asked me why I wanted it so badly, and I told him it was because I loved history and that I had turned one year old on that very day. That moment began a journey of mentorship and brotherhood that I will carry with me forever,” he said. Student Min. Salaam is also the N.O.I. Archivist. Reflecting on Minister Akbar’s legacy, he added, “He taught us to never devalue life’s journey. His work as a world traveler and historian showed us that we could come from America and make friends all over the world.”
Student Minister Troy Muhammad of Detroit also spoke of Minister Akbar’s profound influence. “I was blessed to invite him to our mosque on several occasions, where he shared historical insights that left a lasting impact,” he said. “The power of his words and the strength in his voice were undeniable. His dedication to service and his role as the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan’s best helper are lessons we can all strive to emulate. His legacy is endless.”
From the Southern Region of the Nation of Islam, similar echoes of relationships built by and through Min. Akbar resonated with those who traveled to pay their respects. Atlanta held a viewing on March 23 prior to the Chicago viewing, March 26 and the janazah on March 27.
Bro. Ronald Muhammad and his wife, Sis. Janice of Mosque No. 15 in Atlanta, traveled to Chicago for the service. “We’re so honored to be here and be a part of this. I think what stands out the most (for me) is his work with the Ummah Reflects podcast (formerly the Ramadan Prayer Line) and being so instrumental in the World Friendship Tours of the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan. We’re just grateful and thankful to Allah for this worthy servant, and he’s dearly missed,” he said.
Bro. Leonard F. Muhammad, a member of the Nation of Islam Shura Executive Council, reflected on Minister Akbar’s mentorship and perseverance. “When I came into the Nation of Islam, Brother Akbar was already doing the work. The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan paired us together, and that began a brotherhood that lasted until his passing,” he said. Brother Leonard highlighted Minister Akbar’s resilience, particularly in the face of health challenges. “He had a heart attack many years ago, but he became a pescatarian and an avid walker, which contributed to his longevity. He showed us that while we say ‘Allah is the Best Knower,’ we still have to put in the work to live. Brother Akbar exemplified that.”
Brother Leonard also emphasized Minister Akbar’s unparalleled contributions as the Nation of Islam’s only International Representative. “He wasn’t just given a title—he defined it through his work. From world tours to ensuring the Minister was invited to global conferences, Brother Akbar did more on an international level than most congressmen or senators. His legacy as a diplomat for the Nation of Islam is unmatched.”
Student Minister Jamil Muhammad summed up the sentiment of the day: “Minister Akbar was a unique individual who could connect people from all walks of life. His legacy is one of service, unity, and unwavering faith.”
As the program concluded, attendees left with a renewed sense of purpose, inspired by the life of a man who dedicated himself to the betterment of others. Minister Abdul Akbar Muhammad’s legacy will undoubtedly continue to resonate, not only within the Nation of Islam but across the world.
Final Call Contributing Writer J.A. Salaam, Guest Writer Eric Ture Muhammad, and Final Call Staff contributed to this report.