Who was as Askia Muhammad and how did he affect the religious beliefs of people in Songhai?

Askia Muhammad, also known as Askia the Great, was the ruler of the Songhai Empire in West Africa from 1493 to 1528. He is notable for promoting Islam as a unifying force in his empire, establishing it as the state religion, and encouraging the construction of mosques and the establishment of Islamic schools. His reign fostered a cultural and intellectual revival, attracting scholars and traders, which further solidified Islam's influence over the region and integrated it into the empire's governance and daily life. Through his leadership, Askia Muhammad helped to elevate the status of Islam in West Africa, shaping the religious landscape for generations.