The Amir (National Head) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Alhaji (Barr.) Alatoye Folorunso Azeez has inaugurated the Baitul Shamim Central Mosque in the Apete area of Oyo State, making it the third mosque inaugurated by the Jama’at in 2026.
The mosque was donated by the family of the late Shamim Akhtar in honour of the deceased. Designed to accommodate about 400 worshippers at a time, the facility also includes a well-furnished two-bedroom apartment donated by the family for the Resident Missionary.
Addressing members of the Jama’at and guests at the commissioning ceremony, the Amir underscored the importance of peaceful coexistence at all levels of society, stressing that the mosque must stand as a symbol of unity and harmony among Muslims.
“Fighting and quarrelling in the mosque must be totally avoided. Let us love one another, forgive ourselves, and never harbour hatred against anyone,” the National Head admonished.
Speaking on the sanctity and proper use of mosques, the Amir noted that mosques are sacred places meant solely for prayers and the remembrance of Almighty Allah.
“A mosque should not be used for mundane activities. Its sanctity must never be compromised. It must always be kept clean, tidy, and preserved as a house of worship,” he stated.
Clarifying the belief system of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Alhaji Alatoye reiterated that the Jama’at believes in the oneness of Allah and the prophethood of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).
“The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community does not believe in any prophet different from Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The acceptance of the Promised Messiah as a divinely guided reformer, is in following the prophecy of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw) and this remains the fundamental distinction between the Jama’at and other Muslim groups across the world,” he explained.
On absolute reliance on Allah, the Amir emphasized unwavering faith and obedience to divine guidance.
“Our love for Allah must never be in doubt. When we rely solely on Him, success is assured. We must love Allah so that He will love us in return, and we must extend that love to all His creatures,” he added.
Members of the Jama’at were also urged to propagate Islam with wisdom, humility, and respect, while refraining from criticizing or condemning the beliefs and practices of non-members but continue to pray that Allah guide them to see the light of the Imam Mahdi foretold by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (saw).
The Amir’s entourage at the inauguration ceremony included former Amir of AMJN, Professor Mashhud Adenrele Fashola, Missionary-in-Charge, Maulana Adnan Tahir; the General Secretary of AMJN, Alhaji Ayelagbe Abdul-Jabar; the Press In-Charge, Maulvi Wajih Ullah, among others.
