Ride For Peace
The esteemed Amir sahib Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria joins the 9th edition of Ride for Peace exercise of the Majlis Khuddam Ahmadiyya Nigeria, hosts the Honorable Commissioner for Youth and Social Developments Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende at the Ahmadiyya Headquarters, Ojokoro.
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.
Amir Sahib of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria Visits Alhaji Sheik (Dr) Muyideen Ajani Bello in Ibadan
The respected Amir Sahib of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Alh. (Barr) Alatoye Folorunso Abdul Azeez sahib accompanied by a delegation of esteemed leaders, paid a courtesy visit to Alhaji Sheik (Dr) Muyideen Ajani Bello in Ibadan on Monday, October 28, 2024. The delegation included prominent figures from the Jama’at: Sadr Majlis Ansarullah, former Amir Professor Mashhud Adenrele Fashola, Naib Sadr Awwal Alhaji M.O. Raheem, Assistant General Secretary Akinreti Nurudeen, Monatan Circuit President Brother Okunlola, and Ustaz Aliyy Akewugberu, among others. The Amir’s visit was aimed at two key objectives. Firstly, he formally invited Sheik Muyideen Bello to attend the forthcoming 70th Jalsa Salana, the Platinum Annual Convention of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at. Secondly, Amir Sahib addressed a shared concern within the Muslim community: the need to reduce and ultimately halt the spread of abusive exchanges, accusations, and divisive narratives about Islamic beliefs on social media. He expressed the Jama’at’s commitment to fostering unity, mutual respect, and harmony across all Islamic sects in the country. The Amir Sahib emphasized that, despite sectarian differences, Muslims are united as one Ummah in their worship of Almighty Allah. Alhaji Sheik Muyideen Bello warmly welcomed the delegation and expressed his deep appreciation for the visit. He fondly recalled his past involvement with the Ahmadiyya Community in Ibadan, where he was nurtured under the guidance of Alhaji H.T. Dada before relocating to the North, where he joined the Ansarudeen Society in the absence of a Jama’at presence. Sheik Muyideen Bello highlighted the fundamental purpose of existence as serving Allah alone, reminding us to prioritize spiritual goals over worldly affairs. He commended the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s efforts in Holy Quran memorization, teachings, and peace-promoting preachings, describing them as worthy of respect and emulation. Sheik Bello reiterated that all Muslim organizations should embody peaceful coexistence and respectful discourse toward other sects. The Sheik expressed support for the newly established committee in the Southwest, led by himself, tasked with addressing the issue of divisive behavior among Islamic scholars on social media. The committee registered and recognized by the Federal Government, has been empowered to curb this problem, including taking strict actions against those found in violation. He optimistically noted that, by Allah’s grace, social media abuses within the Muslim community would soon be a matter of the past. As a highlight of the visit, Sheik Muyideen Bello accepted Amir Sahib’s invitation to attend the Jalsa Salana on Saturday, December 21, 2024, reaffirming his enduring support for the values of the Ahmadiyya Community. The visit underscored the shared commitment between both leaders to promote unity and brotherhood within the Nigerian Muslim community, marking another positive step toward fostering a spirit of mutual respect, harmony, and devotion.
Academic Symposium on “Fazl Umar: A Spiritual Reflection of Hazrat Umar (RA)”
On the 18th February 2024, the Amir sahib Alh. (Barr.) Alatoye Folorunso Abdul Azeez sahib presided over an Academic Symposium at Jamia Ahmadiyya Nigeria, delving into the theme “Fazl Umar: A Spiritual Reflection of Hazrat Umar (RA)”. The guest lecturer, Missionary Tasleem Sulaimon, did justice to the topic with his insightful discourse, shedding light on the spiritual essence of Hazrat Umar (RA) and his profound impact on Islamic history. The Amir sahib stated that, In the realm of academia, there exists a distinct dichotomy between theory and practice. While academics provide the theoretical framework, practitioners bring these theories to life through practical application. Life itself operates on the synergy between theory and practice. History provides us with the theoretical foundation, while the actions taken based on this knowledge constitute practical application. It is through this fusion that progress and development are achieved. Academic conferences serve as vital platforms for intellectuals to exchange ideas and delve into scholarly discourse. They offer unique insights and perspectives, distinct from those of practitioners. We are fortunate to have been blessed with Khulfa who possess both theoretical knowledge and practical wisdom. Their ability to integrate theory with practice serves as a guiding light for us all, inspiring us to apply our knowledge in practical endeavors. In essence, the Academic Symposium serves as a beacon of enlightenment, fostering a deeper understanding of our faith and its practical implications in our lives. The event was graced with, Missionary Incharge, Principal Jamia Ahmadiyya and among others.
AMJN National Exhibition 2022
Welcome to National Exhibition 2022 It was Sara Sheridan who wrote: “Without archives, many stories of real people would be lost, and along with those stories, vital clues that allow us to reflect and interpret our lives today.” It is with this huge sense of preserving history that the Majlis Ansarullah Ahmadiyya Nigeria presents to the public an Exhibition titled: “National Exhibition 2022”. The theme of the program is “Islam-ul-Ahmadiyya in Prints and Visuals”. For full details pls follow this link NATIONAL EXHIBITION 2022
AIMAAN Holds U-18 Taekwondo Open Championship
AHMADIYYA INTERNATIONAL MARTIAL ARTS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (AIMAAN) IN CONJUNCTION WITH LAGOS STATE TAEKWONDO ASSOCIATION HOSTS THE 3RD AIMAAN UNDER -18 TAEKWONDO OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP (EKO 2022). The Ahmadiyya International Martial Arts of Nigeria (AIMAAN) U-18 3rd Taekwondo Open Championship was held on the 1st of October 2022, at Indoor Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos State. The One-day championship featured numerous athletes from different states, notable people from different Taekwondo Associations in the country and several Taekwondo clubs. The first U-18 AIMAAN Open Championship was held in 2017 at Ojokoro, Lagos state. The second edition was held in 2019 at Liberty Stadium, Ibadan, Oyo State with a total number of 96 athletes from 3 states and 7 clubs, and 10 officials. The third edition hosted a total number of 260 athletes from 6 states and 19 clubs with quality officiating by 45 Taekwondo officials. The championship could not hold in 2020 and 2021 due to the Global pandemic crises (COVID -19) that ravaged the world. The event which was organized by AIMAAN under the coordination of Majlis Khuddam-ul Ahmadiyya Nigeria (MKAN) was done to give a sense of self-esteem, knowledge of self-defense, heightened mental and physical well-being of the athletes. Most importantly, AIMAAN U-18 Open Championship featured athletes from different clubs and schools in Nigeria, numerous national and regional academies and martial arts organizations including Lagos State Taekwondo Association, Nigeria Taekwondo Federation (NTF), Nigeria Taekwondo Black Belt College (NTBBC), Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, Majlis Khuddam ul Ahmadiyya, Nigeria (MKAN), Majlis Ansarullah of Nigeria (MAAN). All athletes arrived at the stadium at exactly 6:00am, just like any other Taekwondo competitions, the athletes were weighed, and the competition started at exactly 8:00am. The dignitaries at the event were Amir Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria Alh. (Barr) Alatoye Folorunsho Abdul Azeez, Sadr MKA Nigeria Mr. Abdur Roqib Akinyemi, Lagos State Taekwondo Association, Chairman (Master Jimmy Ogunnowo), Lagos State Taekwondo Coach (Master Peace Ogunnowo), NTBBC Vice President GM Abdul Muhmeen (Big Abdul), NTF Vice President GM Tayo Popoola, GM Rafiu Ibrahim (King) among others. 260 athletes from 8 states (Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Kebbi, Ondo, Kwara, Osun and the FCT) participated in the Championship with over 200 spectators within and outside Lagos state came to grace the AIMAAN U-18 3rd Open Championship. Winners of competitions in different categories were given medals and certificates. PHOTO NEWS
REMEMBRANCE ( ALHAJI ISA ADEITE OLANREWAJU OLAYINKA 1930-2022)
Innalillahi Wainna ilayhi rojiun. We remember our father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Alhaji (Prince) Isa Adeite Olanrewaju Olayinka today as always. It is exactly 20 years today (29th October 2002) that you left this world and passed on to glory. (1930 – 2022) A pioneer member of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Mushin Branch & Palmgrove zone. A Builder of high repute, A Philanthropist, A Family Pivotal & A great Achiever. Alhaja Sabitiu Olaide Olayinka – WIFE CHILDREN Mrs. Sikirat Folayemisi Akinsanya – France Mr. Abdul Yakeen Oladele Olayinka – Lagos Mainland Circuit President Mr. Abdul Fatah Owolabi Olayinka – Odogbolu Jama’at President Mr. Tajudeen Adebukonla Olayinka – Idimu Jama’at Umur Amma Officer Mrs. Nurullah Omobolanle Zubair – Lajna President Ajido Muqami, Badagry Circuit Mrs. Khadijat Gbeminiyi Ghazal – Agunfoye Jama’at Member Bro. Sulaiman Olanshile Olayinka – Deceased Mr. Hussein Taiwo Olayinka – France Mrs. Husseinat Kehinde Olayinka – United Kingdom. Sunre ooo Lanrewaju omo Lubu, Omooba Moloda Agada L’Odogbolu.
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
THE HEAD, AMIR, AHMADIYYA MUSLIM JAMAAT NIGERIA 2022 (EID-UL-ADHA ) FEAST OF SARCRIFICE.
On behalf of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, I felicitate with Muslims in Nigeria and across the world on the auspicious Eid-ul-Adha (Festival of Sacrifice) of this year 1443/2022. It is gratifying that Eid-ul-Adha serves as a reminder of that example of sacrifice set over 4,000 years ago. Despite so much time having elapsed, the believers have kept this memory alive and it has not diminished. Yet there will be those who celebrate this Eid merely as a festival; who sacrifice animals merely as an occasion of happiness. However, a true believer must remember the importance and the spirit of that sacrifice offered by the Great Patriarch, the Prophet Ibraheem (peace be on him). The spirit and essence of this sacrifice have been declared in chapter 22 verse 38 of the Holy Quran thus: “Their flesh reaches not Allah, nor does their blood, but it is your righteousness that reaches Him. Thus, has He subjected them to you that you may glorify Allah for His guiding you. And give glad tidings to those who do good.” In this light, as we go through this festive season, it is imperative that we reflect on the fact that the narrative of the sacrifice and righteousness of Prophet Ibraheem, the patience of Prophet Isma’eel, and the fortitude of his mother, Hagar reverberates the core ethos and virtues that Eid-ul-Adha annually enlivens in the consciousness of the faithful to emulate and demonstrate in our divine-human relationship and in all ramifications of our actions, reactions, interactions, and transactions. More importantly, for us in Nigeria, there is no doubt that we are currently passing through a critical time as a people and a nation. This is hallmarked by the gamut of challenges of political economy, endemic corruption, crippling educational and power sectors, and the heightening crisis of insecurity characterized by the dastardly acts of banditry, terrorism, and the incessant heinous cases of kidnapping for ransom and for ritual and the senseless killings and destructions by the so-called “unknown gunmen”. Above all, however, as we move closer to the Osun State governorship election and the ultimate 2023 general elections, the ongoing electioneering season is gradually witnessing a sharp surge of issues associated with elections in Nigeria, ranging from hate speech and fake news to bitter and dirty politics, to secessionist or separatist jingoism, divisive tribal or ethnic partisanship, the politicization of religious issues and endemic cases of vote-trading and other election malpractices. In the face of this critical situation, it becomes imperative for a people that yarns for peace and development to translate to affirmative action all the lessons of Eid-ul- Adha as demonstrated by the Prophet Ibraheem, particularly as Muslim and Christian reverence him as the Father of the faithful; incidentally, Nigeria is majorly made up of the two religious groups with 53.5% Muslim, 45.9% Christian and 6% others, according to the 2018 CIA Factbook estimate. In the spirit of Abrahamic sacrifice and for the sake of a greater and peaceful Nigeria, great sacrifice must be made towards organizing free, fair, credible and peaceful elections, as “Verily, Allah commands you to make over the trusts to those entitled to them, and that, when you judge between men, you judge with justice,” (Quran, 4:59). Selfishness and parochial interest must be sacrificed for the collective, national interest. More so, political participation, activism, leadership and governance must be underpinned by the spirit of sacrifice, righteousness, sincerity of purpose and selfless service to humanity and national development, cohesion, solidarity, peace and stability. Imperatively, Nigerian politicians and political leaders must sacrifice dirty and bitter politics on the alter of altruistic politics, selfish political godfatherism for patriotic statesmanship, political thuggery for sportsmanship, nepotism and favouritism for equitable distribution of the commonwealth, warfare for welfare, iniquity for equity and injustice for justice. As the worldwide Supreme Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community noted in his 2021 Eid-ul-Adha Sermon, “We cannot regard these incidents as mere stories; rather these stories are a model for us. When every man strives to inculcate the example of Ibrahim, when every woman tries to inculcate the example of Hagar, when every youngster tries to inculcate the example of Isma’eel; only then will a true change come about……These all require sacrifices. No change can come about by merely listening to stories of sacrifice, rather they must be implemented. Every nation around the world will have to present sacrifices. Thus can a unity come about in the world.” May Allah the Almighty grant us the best of Eid-ul-Adha experiences with all the divine grace, peace, and happiness that accompanies it. Āmīn!
