Minaret University, Ikirun Holds Maiden Matriculation for 2025/2026 Academic Session
Minaret University, Ikirun, on Thursday, April 30, 2026, held its maiden matriculation ceremony for the 2025/2026 academic session formally welcoming its pioneer students into a new chapter of faith-driven academic excellence. The occasion carried a significance that extends far beyond the borders of Nigeria. Minaret University holds the historic distinction of being the first university established by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community worldwide a landmark achievement that places Ikirun, Osun State, at the heart of a global milestone in Islamic education and community development. The historic ceremony was graced by the Amir of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria and Chancellor of the University, Alhaji (Barr.) Alatoye Folorunso Azeez, who attended as the representative of the University Visitor, His Holiness Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V, Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (atba). Also in attendance were the Naib Amir for Finance and Administration, Alhaji (Engr.) Mufadhil Bankole; Pro-Chancellor of Minaret University Alhaji Comrade Hassan Sumonu; Sadr Majlis Ansarullah, Alhaji Dauda A. Raji; and several distinguished members of the National Amila of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria. Their presence underscored the deep communal and institutional investment behind a university that the global Ahmadiyya Muslim Community can rightly call its own. A total of 12 pioneer students were formally inducted a number modest in size but monumental in meaning. As the first ever students to be matriculated at the first Ahmadiyya-owned university in the world, their place in history is already secured. Addressing the matriculants, the Chancellor set a clear and inspiring tone for the occasion. He told the students: “You are privileged to be the pioneer students of this university. You will be remembered as those who set the standard academically, socially, and morally. I therefore urge you to dedicate yourselves fully to your studies, uphold the values and rules of the University, demonstrate discipline and integrity in all your actions, and strive for excellence at all times. Remember, success is not achieved by chance but through hard work, perseverance, and character.” The Vice Chancellor, Professor Abdul Rahman O. Abdullah, in his matriculation address, noted with deep gratitude that the university received its operational licence in April 2025 and that exactly one year later, in the same month of April, it was holding its first-ever matriculation. He described the timing as a special providence and a testimony to the grace of Allah and the dedication of all who worked tirelessly to bring the vision to life. He charged the pioneer students to uphold the university’s founding philosophy of producing graduates who are not only academically sound but morally grounded men and women of integrity, purpose, and service. For the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria and indeed the global Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Thursday’s matriculation is more than a ceremony it is the living proof that a dream nurtured across generations has finally taken root. For the 12 pioneer students, it is the beginning of a journey they will one day recount with quiet pride as those who came first, carried the torch, and set the standard for all who will follow.
Amir AMJN Unveils AMSA National Secretariat at Minaret University, Ikirun
On Thursday, April 30, 2026, a sense of quiet gratitude filled the air at Minaret University, Ikirun, on Thursday as the Ahmadiyya Muslim Students’ Association officially commissioned its new National Secretariat marking a historic shift in the organisation’s administrative home. The ceremony, attended by national leadership, executives, and AMSA members from across the country, marked the formal close of the association’s long-standing years at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, where the Secretariat had been based since 2001, and opened a new chapter at Minaret University’s serene campus. The Amir of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Alhaji (Barr.) Azeez Folorunsho Alatoye, performed the ribbon-cutting to commission the new facility formally. Speaking at the event, the Amir described the new Secretariat as more than a change of address. He framed it as a deliberate step toward strengthening AMSA’s intellectual and spiritual development a dedicated space where leadership would be nurtured, ideas refined, and the association’s broader purpose continually renewed. The National President of AMSA Nigeria, Al-Haafidh Abdulquddoos Omotayo Yusuf, also addressed those gathered, paying tribute to Obafemi Awolowo University for the role it played in the association’s growth over more than two decades. He expressed confidence that the move to Minaret University would enhance coordination across AMSA’s national operations, deepen member engagement, and provide a more structured environment for its programmes and activities. Members of the National Executive Council were present alongside students who had travelled to witness the occasion a gathering that reflected both the breadth of AMSA’s reach and the shared investment in its future. The relocation to Minaret University is widely seen within the association as a strategic move, one that plants AMSA’s administrative base within the Jama’at-owned institution rooted in Islamic values and academic excellence a fitting home for an organisation with a clear eye on the future.
Amir Ahmadiyya Nigeria Receives AMSA Leadership, Commends Strategic Plans, Approves Relocation of National Secretariat to Minaret University
The leadership of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Students’ Association (AMSA), Nigeria, on Friday 26 December 2025 paid a familiarisation visit to the Respected Amir of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria (AMJN), Alhaji Alatoye Folorunso Azeez sahib, during which approval was granted for the relocation of the AMSA National Secretariat to Minaret University, Ikirun (MUI). The meeting commenced at about the recitation of the Holy Qur’an by Hafiz Ahmad Abdul Hameed, after which members of the AMSA delegation were formally introduced by the National President. Speaking at the meeting, the AMSA National President, Hafidh AbdulQudoos Yusuf sahib, expressed gratitude to the Respected Amir for granting the audience. He explained that the visit was aimed at familiarising the newly elected national executives with the Amir sahib, briefing him on the ongoing and proposed programmes, and further strengthening institutional relationships. The President thereafter invited the Vice President (Special Duties), Brother Yusuff Ahmad sahib, to present the administration’s work plan for the year. He stated that the plan was anchored on Jama’at values, intellectual development, and the expansion of AMSA’s presence across campuses nationwide. Five key strategic pillars were outlined, including the establishment of a career linkage platform, the creation of an intellectual forum in collaboration with Majlis Ansar Sultanul Qalam (MASQ), revival of inactive campus branches, upgrade of the AMSA digital portal for effective reporting, and the introduction of an MDU grading system to promote transparency and healthy competition. Other initiatives highlighted included deeper collaboration with MASQ Nigeria in line with the AMSA motto, capacity-building in photography and videography, strengthening prayer culture, fostering stronger ties with the Majlis Khuddam-ul-Ahmadiyya of Nigeria (MKAN), encouraging financial sacrifice, promoting sports development, rolling out digital-first health initiatives, and the establishment of an AMSA Secretariat at Minaret University, Ikirun. Prior to Amir’s response, the General Secretary of AMJN, Alhaji Jabbar Ayelagbe sahib, congratulated AMSA on the successful organisation of its recently concluded Tabligh workshop and commended the comprehensiveness of the work plan. He enquired about AMSA’s financial commitments towards MUI, encouraged sustained financial sacrifice, supported the proposal for the Secretariat at MUI, and advised members to prioritise their academic responsibilities. In his remarks, Amir sahib underscored the strategic importance of AMSA as a vital Tabligh arm of the Jama’at, particularly within tertiary institutions. He observed that while some AMSA campus units were performing excellently, others required renewed commitment, urging members to remain consistent in projecting Islam and the Jama’at positively. He commended the leadership and members for their dedication and planning. Amir sahib formally approved the proposal to relocate the AMSA National Secretariat to Minaret University, Ikirun, and directed the General Secretary to communicate the approval to the Vice-Chancellor of the university. He further disclosed that school fees at MUI had been significantly reduced following engagements with AMSA leadership at Ilorin, while emphasising the need for continued sacrifice to ensure the institution’s growth and sustainability. Endorsing AMSA’s career linkage initiative and collaboration with MASQ, the Amir sahib advised the leadership to engage the National Ta’leem Secretary, Engr. Tajudeen Oladoja sahib, for further guidance and support. On sports development, he recommended collaboration with the Fadl-Omar Sports Academy and stressed that prayer must remain central to all AMSA programmes. He also clarified that AMSA executives were expected to assume office from November 1 annually, encouraged members facing personal challenges to remain steadfast, and highlighted the importance of regular engagement with the National Ta’leem Secretary, who also serves as Chairman of the Scholarship Committee. The Amir sahib further praised AMSA’s partnership with Humanity First International, describing it as a contemporary and effective Tabligh approach. He suggested organising academic competitions as a means of building goodwill with university authorities and informed members of internship opportunities available through the Ahmadi Business Association of Nigeria. He added that the Jama’at remained willing to support graduates in securing employment and assured that land would be made available should AMSA request plots at the permanent site of MUI. The meeting concluded with closing prayers led by the Respected Amir sahib.
Pursue the Highest Pinnacle of Success in Both Education and Career
Members of the Ahmadi Muslim Students’ Association (AMSA) have been admonished to remain focused and resilient in their quest for academic and professional excellence, regardless of life’s challenges. The call was made by the Amir (National Head) of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Alhaj (Barr.) Alatoye Folorunso Azeez, during the 2025 edition of the Annual Higher Institutions Convention (AHIC), held on Saturday, 1st November 2025, at the University of Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara State. Barrister Alatoye described life’s challenges as divine instruments designed by Almighty Allah to refine, strengthen, and elevate believers into resilient and successful individuals. “Let all of you know that challenges are necessities of life. Almighty God has created human beings to face them. Facing challenges is an opportunity for development, sustainability, and growth. In all, challenges are meant to strengthen us and make us better personalities in life,” he said. The Amir urged students never to lose hope in the mercy of Allah, but to pursue both knowledge and excellence relentlessly. “Strive to seek knowledge and pursue your profession to the highest pinnacle. Do not relax in your efforts to succeed. Advance rapidly and aim to become professors and professionals of distinction at a young age,” he emphasized. Speaking on the theme of the convention — “Campus Re-awakening: Leading with Light, Serving with Knowledge” — Barr. Alatoye encouraged AMSA members to be more proactive in Tabligh (propagation of Islam) on their campuses. He reminded them that winning new converts and nurturing them in faith are core assignments given by Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (May Allah be his Helper), the Supreme Head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community. He further enjoined students to extend their influence beyond the campus by making positive contributions to society, including active and principled participation in politics when opportunities arise. “It is your duty to invite people into Islam-ul-Ahmadiyya and ensure they remain within the fold. This is the assignment given to us as members of the Jama’at,” he said. “In addition, we are expected to be impactful in governance, the private sector, and social life. Through this, we can correct whatever wrongs you notice in the system. Therefore, participate honestly and distinctly in Nigerian politics.” Among the dignitaries who graced the annual convention were: Dean Faculty of Education Unilorin Prof. Olanrewaju Olaitan; Sub-Dean Faculty of Envonmental Science Union Unilorin Dr. Agara Halim; Associate Professor Department of Statistics Dr. Oloyede Ishaq; Deputy National Head (Finance and Administration) AMJN Alh. Mufadhil Bankole; National General Secretary AMJN Alh. Jabar Ayelagbe Adekunle; National President Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Youth Wing Al- Hafidh Alaka Abdur Rofeeq and National Secretary Jaidad (Property) Builder Bashirdeen Towolawi.
Empowering Future Leaders: The Amir’s Collaborative Session with AMSA Executives
Yesterday 17th February 2024, the esteemed Amir sahib, Alhaji (Barr.) Alatoye Folorunso AbdulAzeez sahib, and the newly leadership of the Ahmadi Muslim Students Association of Nigeria (AMSA) heralded a pivotal moment in fostering collaboration and charting a progressive path forward for the association. Under the able guidance of the Amir sahib, the meeting was held at the National Headquarters, Ojokoro Lagos State, aimed at enhancing the efficacy and impact of AMSA’s initiatives across the nation. The team was led by the dynamic leadership, Hafiz Sulaimon Abdul Qudus, the gathering served as a forum to deliberate on various programs and assess the overall progress of AMSA. Among the focal points of discussion was the upcoming 3rd edition of the annual Quran Competition—an event emblematic of AMSA’s commitment to nurturing spiritual growth and fostering Quranic knowledge among its members. The Amir sahib’s unwavering support and encouragement underscored the importance of this esteemed competition in nurturing a generation of devout and knowledgeable Ahmadi Muslim students. Furthermore, the meeting shed light on the challenge of low participation among AMSA members in school activities—a concern that the Amir sahib and the AMSA leadership are committed to address through targeted strategies and proactive engagement efforts. Recognizing the invaluable role of social media as a platform for Tabligh, the discussion also explored innovative ways to leverage digital channels to amplify the message of Islam and broaden the reach of AMSA’s outreach endeavors. The Amir sahib’s guidance and wisdom served as a beacon of inspiration for the AMSA leadership, instilling a renewed sense of purpose and resolve in advancing the organization’s objectives. With the collective efforts and unwavering dedication of both the Amir sahib and the AMSA leadership, the future holds boundless promise for AMSA as it continues to empower and uplift Ahmadi Muslim students across Nigeria. Present at the meeting were Alhaji Abass Iromini, the General Secretary of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat (AMJ), along with the Assistant General Secretary, Bro. Nurudeen Akinreti, members of the AMSA National Executive, State President, and Unit President.
The Amir sahib Ahmadiyya Nigeria of Nigeria Alh. (Barr) Alatoye Folorunsho AbdulAzeez sahib, chaired the symposium program of the Ahmadi Muslim Students Association Annual Higher Institution Convention 2023.
The Association marked 40th anniversary of its establishment. The Amir sahib with Sadr Majlis Ansarullah Nigeria, Sadr Majlis Khudammul Ahmadiyya Nigeria, the Grand Patron and the National President of the Association launched the Association magazine Ad-Dhikr. The programme was graced by important personalities including the National Taleem Secretary, pioneer members of AMSA, some past National Presidents among other important guests. The Association, as part of efforts to commemorate the Ruby anniversary, launched its website. www.amsa.ng Amir sahib presented some awards to outstanding units and states of the association.
