Unsung heroes from the security and kitchen department
These powerful pictures capture the spirit of selflessness and devotion as they get ready to host the guests of Imam Mahdi (as) Let’s appreciate their hard work and commitment to making this event a success!
Behind the scene heroes
Meet the unsung heroes of #JalsaSalanaNG Our amazing volunteers are working tirelessly in the kitchen to prepare meals for our guests.
Rishtanata session
Check out these heartfelt moments from our Rishtanata session at Jalsa Salana! Experienced members shared valuable insights and advice on building strong, happy marriages. From young singles to seasoned couples, everyone left feeling inspired!
The Amir of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Alhaji (Barr.) Alatoye Folorunso Abdul Azeez, paid a courtesy visit to His Royal Highness, the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji (Dr.) Rilwanu Sulaimanu Adamu, CFR.
The Amir of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Alhaji (Barr.) Alatoye Folorunso Abdul Azeez, paid a courtesy visit to His Royal Highness, the Emir of Bauchi, Alhaji (Dr.) Rilwanu Sulaimanu Adamu, CFR. The Emir warmly received the Amir and expressed deep appreciation for the thoughtful gesture, commending it as a profound expression of respect and love. This significant visit was part of the Amir’s condolence visit to the family of Alhaji Muhammad Mahmud Maishanu, who meritoriously served as the Amir of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria from 1998 to 2004. May Almighty Allah forgive his shortcomings and accept him in aljanat firdaoz.
Amir Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria Urges Nigerians to Pray for the Nation and Trust in Allah
The Amir sahib, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Alh. Barrister Alatoye Folorunso Azeez sahib, has called on Nigerians to fervently pray for the nation and place their trust in Allah the Almighty during a courtesy visit to His Royal Highness, Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Ahmed Yakubu II, Ejeh of Ankpa; Chairman Ankpa Traditional Council/vice Chairman Igala Area Traditional Council, Coordinator North Central Traditional Rulers. The visit took place at the royal father’s residence in Abuja, where the Amir sahib led a delegation comprising key members of the Jama’at. During the visit, the Amir sahib extended a formal invitation to His Royal Highness to attend the 70th Jalsa Salana (Annual Convention) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, scheduled to hold in Ilaro, Ogun State. He expressed appreciation for the royal father’s steadfastness and commitment to upholding the true principles of Islam as espoused by the Jama’at. In his remarks, Amir sahib emphasized the importance of gratitude to Allah, unity, peace, and collective prayers for the progress of the nation. He urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and rely on Allah’s guidance during challenging times. In response, His Royal Highness graciously accepted the invitation to the Jalsa Salana and extended a reciprocal invitation to the Amir to visit the Ankpa Kingdom. The Amir expressed his also happily accepted the invitation, further strengthening ties between the Jama’at and the traditional institution. His Royal Highness expressed his wishes that Nigerians pray for leaders to succeed rather than cursing the leaders which has ripple effects on all. The Amir’s delegation included: Dr. Abdul Lateef Busari, Naib Amir for Tabligh and Tarbiyyah Dr. Abdul Ganiy Enahoro, former Naib Amir for the Eastern Region Alhaj Abbas Iromini, General Secretary, AMJN Dr. Qasim Akinreti, Coordinator of MTA Nigeria Studios and Nazim Publicity for Jalsa Salana Mr. Ahmed Sanusi, Circuit President, Abuja Maulvi Nasir, Central Missionary, Abuja Mr. Ajumobi, President of Abuja Jama’at Brother Ismail Yusuf, Nazim Ala, Majlis Ansarullah Abuja Brother Abdullah, a member of Abuja Jama’at Missionary Abdul Kabir Olowolayemo Members of the Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya, Abuja Jama’at The visit highlighted the importance of mutual respect, collaboration, and spiritual focus in addressing societal challenges. The Amir’s message of hope and reliance on Allah resonated deeply with all in attendance.
Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Commissions Masroor International Technical College in Ilaro, Ogun State
In a landmark event, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria proudly commissioned the Masroor International Technical College in Ilaro, Ogun State, a milestone celebrated as a visionary step towards youth empowerment and economic self-reliance. The inauguration was graced by His Excellency, the Governor of Ogun State, Prince (Dr.) Dapo Abiodun, who was ably represented by Mrs. Oloko Oluwatosin Moriamo, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology. The distinguished Amir of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Alhaji Alatoye Folorunso Abdul Azeez sahib, presided over the ceremony, with notable dignitaries within and beyond the Jama’at. Among the distinguished guests were Maulana Rana Akram, acting Missionary in Charge; Alhaji Mufadil Bankole, Naib Amir Finance and Administration, who also serves as the Head of the International Association of Ahmadi Architects and Engineers (IAAAE) in Nigeria; Arc. Akram Ahmedi, European Head of IAAAE; and Engr. Umar Ahmad sahib, IAAAE Head for Africa. Royal Fathers, including His Royal Majesty Oba Buhari Ololade Makinde, the Oniwoye of Iwoye, and Oba Saheed Olubiyi, the Onidogo of Idogo-Yewa, also graced the occasion, lending their support to this pivotal initiative. Other eminent personalities present included the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, and esteemed representatives from the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE) and the National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB), all of whom expressed their admiration for the Jama’at’s commitment to Nigeria’s educational advancement. The Masroor International Technical College is set to offer highly relevant technical programs such as Electrical Installation, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, Plumbing and Pipe Fitting, Computer Hardware Maintenance and Repairs, Software Engineering and Web Development, and various building skills, including Bricklaying, Concrete Work, Masonry, and Tiling. These courses were carefully selected to address current industry needs, thereby equipping students with essential skills to enhance their employability and foster self-sufficiency. Guests at the commissioning lauded the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at for establishing this institution, acknowledging the critical role it will play in reducing unemployment and preparing graduates for careers in the ever-evolving technical and industrial sectors. By promoting skill acquisition and hands-on experience, the college provides a viable path to self-reliance, enabling graduates to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy. The occasion also highlighted the pressing need for more government support in establishing similar technical institutions nationwide. Such expansion, attendees emphasized, would empower Nigeria’s youth with practical skills, reducing the unemployment rate, fostering economic independence, and encouraging an entrepreneurial spirit. The Masroor International Technical College stands as an exemplary model, demonstrating how education and training can transform lives, inspire communities, and strengthen the nation. In conclusion, the inauguration of this college marks a new chapter in the educational landscape of Ogun State and Nigeria at large. Through this commitment to technical education, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria reaffirms its dedication to the advancement and prosperity of the nation, laying the foundation for a skilled, self-reliant generation poised to meet the challenges of the future.
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Community holds UK Islamic Conference
The 2022 annual Islamic Conference (Jalsa Salana) of Ahmadiyya Muslim Association, UK, holds on 5th to 7th August in Islamabad, Alton, UK. Due to COVID-19 constraints, the event is not open to external guests across the world, except for selected leaders of the Ahmadiyya Community and those residents in the UK. The Amir (National Head), Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat of Nigeria, Barrister Alatoye Azeez Folorunso is among the special dignitaries attending the conference in London. However, members of the public are welcomed to join live proceedings of the programme which can be watched at various homes and Ahmadiyya mosques across the world via the Community’s satellite television channel, the Muslim Television Ahmadiyya, (MTA International) Also, Murhi International Television, MITV, and Gaskiya Cable TV will join other 20 television channels across Africa to broadcast the Islamic Conference live for three days. In Nigeria, the Ahmadiyya Headquarters’ Central Mosque at Ojokoro, Lagos, and others across the country will play hosts to members and guests for the three-day proceedings. According to the founder of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, the Promised Messiah (as), the primary purpose of the Islamic Convention, which commenced since 1891 in Qadian, India, but now spread across the world, is to enable every sincere individual to personally experience religious benefits, enhance their knowledge, promote mutual understanding and strengthen fraternal ties within the Islamic Community. He said the gathering is not an ordinary human assembly, but a phenomenon that is based purely on the Divine Help for the propagation of Islam, translating to an affirmative action the declaration contains in Quran chapter 4 verse 115 that, “There is no good in many of their conferences except the conferences of such as enjoin charity, or goodness, or the making of peace among men. And whoso does that, seeking the pleasure of Allah, We shall soon bestow on him a great reward.” The high points of the gathering are addresses to be delivered by the Supreme World Leader of the Ahmadiyya Muslim community, Hazrat Masr r Ahmad, khalifatul Masih, V, goodwill messages from world leaders, prominent scholars, and very important guests for three days, and the global acceptance of new members and renewal of commitment to Islam and e Ahmadiyya community – “the Global Bai’at”, a tradition noted in Islam – that will be performed by His Holiness on Sunday. Other soul-inspiring topical issues in Islam and the global progress report of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community will also feature during the conference. The live streaming of the Conference proceedings can also be watched or followed on the social media platforms such as www.alislam.org, www.mta.tv/africa, www. Youtube.com/africa Facebook Twitter, and Instagram. You can listen to online radio proceedings in www.voiceofislam.org Qasim Akinreti Ph.D Head, Media Team, Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria
Eid al-Adha Sermon Summary 10th July 2022: ‘Attaining the True Spirit of Sacrifice of Abraham (as)’
After reciting Tashahhud, Ta’awwuz and Surah al-Fatihah, His Holiness Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aba) said: The Sacrifice of Abraham (as) & the Sign of God Almighty’s Promise By the grace of Allah we are celebrating the day of Eid al-Adha, that is the festival of sacrifice. During this celebration we commemorate the sacrifice of a father, mother and a son, which took place over a thousand years ago. It was the sacrifice of Abraham (as) who left his wife and child in a barren wilderness, solely because it was the instruction of God Almighty. The level of faith displayed by his wife when she came to know this was from His Lord was unwavering, as she was sure that He would take care of them. Indeed, Allah Almighty provided everything that they required, and this became the start of a new population. His Holiness (aba) said that every year now millions of people travel to that place which was once barren, but is now a sign of the promise of God Almighty. Furthermore, from the progeny came the greatest of all prophets, the Prophet Muhammad (sa) who was sent as a warner and bearer of glad tidings for the entire world. He showed the world the manner in which one ought to commemorate the great sacrifice of Abraham (as) and his family, and so Muslims all around the world display their love for God Almighty and sacrifice for his sake because of this. Uniting under the Ardent Devotee of the Holy Prophet (sa), the Promised Messiah (as) His Holiness (aba) then said that other than Islam there is no religion in the world, the followers of which are truly acting upon the teachings brought by their founder or prophet. There is no revealed book which remains in its pristine form, other than the Holy Qur’an. His Holiness (aba) said that even if many followers of Islam fail to act upon the true teachings of the Qur’an, Allah Almighty will always raise people who will follow it as is required. Thus in accordance with His promise, Allah Almighty sent the Ardent Devotee of the Holy Prophet (sa), the Promised Messiah (as) to complete the propagation of his religion. He came and challenged the entire world to bring forth any teachings which can compare to the Holy Qur’an, yet no one was able to do so successfully. His Holiness (aba) explained that the Promised Messiah (as) came to show the world once again the true teachings of Islam, and to save the people from their self-concocted customs and innovations which were leading them away from the true spirit of Islam. Yet, instead of showing gratitude to God Almighty for this immense blessing, it is regretful to see that the Muslim world became staunch in their opposition to this appointee of Allah. Rather than uniting under this leader, Muslims are fighting amongst themselves, issuing edicts against each other and looting one another. His Holiness (aba) said that this Islam that they are presenting is not the true Islam. True Islam is of peace, love and harmony. Celebrating True Eid by Spreading the Message of Peace & Accepting Promised Messiah (as) His Holiness (aba) said that Abraham (as) prayed to God that the land becomes a place of peace and security, hence, the Muslims should realise that if they associate themselves with this holy precinct, and wish for this promise to be fulfilled, then they must harbour love, peace and harmony in their hearts rather than fight amongst themselves. Rather than opposing the Promised Messiah (as) who appeared in accordance with the prophecies of the Holy Prophet (sa) and committing injustices against his community, the Muslim world must celebrate the true Eid by spreading the message of peace and by joining his community. If they do not do so, then they can celebrate thousands of Eids and perform as many pilgrimages as they like, their Eids and pilgrimages will be that of those who oppose the teachings of Allah Almighty. The Correct Way of Commemorating the Sacrifice His Holiness (aba) stated that one should ponder as to whether the sacrifices of the Muslims can even gain any acceptance by Allah if they continue to commit grave injustices and perpetrate such persecution. What’s more, in certain areas of Pakistan announcements have been made that no Ahmadi is allowed to perform any sacrifice during the three days of Eid, be it for any reason. His Holiness (aba) said that when circumstances reach such a point then Allah Almighty also manifests His punishment. Ahmadi Muslims are actually those who understand the true spirit of sacrifice, and have pledged to sacrifice their lives, wealth, time and honour. His Holiness (aba) also addressed the Ahmadis to remain patient and that one day their patience would bear fruit, God willing, just as the patience and sacrifices of Abraham (as), Hagar (as) and Ishmael (as) bore fruit. They never let go of prayer and patience, and so the greatest blessings were manifested in the person of the Holy Prophet (sa) and his companions, who were from the progeny of Ishmael (as). So even today, Allah Almighty will not abandon anyone who is patient and makes sacrifices, He will certainly come to their aid. It is therefore our duty to submit to Allah even more and to increase our level of righteousness. We must strive to attain that spirit of sacrifice, if we desire to receive the pleasure of Allah and face our opposition. His Holiness (aba) then said that the Promised Messiah (as) explained the manner in which one can reach this level of sacrifice when he stated that Allah Almighty has given examples for the commandments given to us. One is commanded to sacrifice oneself entirely, and the manifestation of that sacrifice is the animals we slaughter. Yet, it is not the blood nor the meat which reaches Allah, it is the righteousness in us. Hence, just as one slaughters an animal physically, they must be prepared to be
AHMADIYYA OPENS ULTRA-MODERN MOSQUE IN BADAGRY
Condemns Owo Massacre in Strong Terms It was a huge landmark and historic day on Sunday, 19th June 2022 as the National Head of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Barr. Alatoye Folorunso AbdulAzeez commissioned an Ultra-Modern Central Mosque at Ajagamibo Avenue, Aradagun Badagry in Lagos State. The worship centre was built with state-of-the-art facilities, tiled both within and outside, embedded with good-looking minarets, and surrounded by attractive flowers in a serene and spacious environment. Named ‘Baitul-Fatah Mosque’, the place of worship can easily accommodate over 600 worshippers at once. The foundation of the Mosque was first laid in October 1980 by the then head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Nigeria, His Eminence Ajmal Shaheed Ahmad. The foundation stone was re-laid on Saturday 19th February 2022 by the Badagry Branch President of the Muslim Organization, Pa. M.B Okubena. Hence the mosque project was completed in a record four-month. The Mosque was built and donated by one of the blessed families of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community – the Popoola family in honor of their late father Alhaj Abdul Fatah Atanda Popoola who was a staunch and devoted member till his demise in 1982. In his address, the National Head of the Muslim organization lauded the initiatives of the Popoola family, stressing the importance of Mosque building and its aftermath rewards in the hereafter. He added that all places of worship must be sacred centres void of evil acts. Alhaji Alatoye further admonished worshippers to always have pure and sincere minds when observing prayers in Mosques as this is pleased with Almighty God. “The rewards for building Mosques in honor of our late loved ones are in multitudes. It is a life-time reward. The initiative of the Popoola family is hereby commendable”. “We must worship in the Mosque with our hearts filled with love, kindness, and piety. Everything we do in the Mosque must be Godly. May Allah accepts our sincere prayers,” he prayed. Owo Massacre highly condemnable Alhaji Alatoye also used the opportunity to, once again, condemn in strong terms, the brutal attack on worshippers at St. Francis Catholic Church, Owo in Ondo State. He stated: “It is difficult to believe any group of individuals could have the audacity to attack a place of worship filled with human beings who were gathered to worship God, the Almighty. This is the peak of an affront against God and man that will never go unpunished. There is no absolutely no justification whatsoever for any group of people to engage themselves in such a callous and dastard act.” “Even in the face of a defensive response to an act of war, the Holy Quran expressly forbids believers from attacking places of worship, children, women, and priests.” The Amir further informed that the youths of the organization joined others in donating blood to the surviving victims of the barbaric attacks. He thus urged the police force to fish out all the perpetrators and their masterminds and made them to face the full wrath of the law for their devilish acts.
HUMANITY FIRST PARTNERS LAJNA IMAILLAH NIGERIA TO RESTORE EYE SIGHT AS IT JOINS GLOBAL CENTENARY ANNIVERSARY.
Humanity First Nigeria, with funding support from Humanity First Canada, joined the Women Servants of Allah in Lajnah Immaillah Nigeria to conduct thirty free cataract eye surgeries in Abeokuta. Humanity First International manages the global gift of sight campaign through the organization of eye surgery outreaches worldwide. The recent expedition was held at the State Hospital Abeokuta Ogun State on the 24th and 31st of May 2022. Six eyeglasses were also given to indigent patients whose eyesight disorder did not warrant surgical interventions. The selection process for the beneficiaries was conducted using Google forms data submission, screening, and selection of the best-suited candidates for surgery from 70 applications. The beneficiaries included 20 females(amongst which was a 12-year-old girl), and 10 Adult males ranging from ages 17 to 86. The free eye cataract operations was highly appreciated by the beneficiaries. It was part of activities commemorating the Centenary celebrations of Lajnah Immaillah worldwide. Gift of Sight Photo Gallery
