Analytical Study of the Prophet Muhammad’s Leadership Model and Its Application in Nigerian Islamic Organisational Governance

This study conducts an analytical examination of the Prophet Muhammad's (SAW) leadership model as documented in Seerah and Hadith literature and evaluates its application potential within the governance frameworks of Islamic organisations in Nigeria. Islamic leadership theory offers a values-based governance paradigm grounded in justice, consultation, mercy, and accountability, yet its systematic application in Nigerian Islamic institutional settings has not been empirically examined. The study employs a qualitative document analysis and case study design, drawing on classical and contemporary Seerah scholarship alongside semi-structured interviews with 25 leaders of major Islamic organisations in Abuja, Kano, Lagos, and Kaduna. Data are analysed using thematic analysis within an Islamic leadership theory framework. Findings reveal that while respondents affirm the Prophetic leadership model as an ideal, its formal integration into organisational governance structures, decision-making processes, and accountability mechanisms is largely symbolic rather than systematic. Organisational cultures are often shaped more by ethnicity, network-based trust, and personality than by Prophetic governance principles. The study recommends the development of an Islamic Organisational Governance Charter rooted in Prophetic principles, training of Islamic organisation executives in Seerah-based leadership, and independent governance audits for major Islamic civil society bodies. Keywords: Prophetic leadership, Islamic governance, Seerah, organisational management, Nigeria.