The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria marked a significant milestone on Thursday 30 April, 2026 as the Amir, Alhaji (Barr.) Alatoye Folorunso Azeez laid the foundation for the reconstruction of the AMJN Central Mosque in Osogbo a project that carries both deep historical significance and a profoundly personal connection for the community’s national leader.
The reconstruction is being undertaken as part of a mosque-building donation by former Amir of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria, Maulana Ajmal Shahid, whose legacy of selfless service and dedication to the growth of the Jama’at continues to find enduring expression in this generous gift to the Osogbo community.
Speaking at the foundation-laying ceremony, the Amir reflected warmly on the rich history of the mosque, sharing a personal testimony that added a deeply moving dimension to the occasion. He recalled that he himself had stayed within the mosque as far back as 1984 for a year, a disclosure that drew a direct and living connection between his own journey of faith and the very walls now being raised anew. For those present, it was a powerful reminder that this mosque is not merely a structure of brick and mortar, but a witness to decades of worship, sacrifice, and community life.
Beyond his personal reflections, Amir delivered a compelling message of unity, encouragement, and spiritual perspective to members of the Jama’at. He urged members not to feel discouraged or overlooked, reminding them that service to the Jama’at takes many forms and that every role whether prominent or quietly performed carries equal value and honour within the community.
He further emphasised that members assigned or delegated with specific responsibilities were carefully identified as the most capable and suitable hands for those roles at that particular time. Drawing from Islamic history to drive home his point, the Amir cited the example of the noble companion of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), Hazrat Abu Dhar (may Allah be pleased with him) despite his immense piety and devotion, Hazrat Abu Dhar was advised by the Holy Prophet not to take up public office or a position of leadership, as he was considered soft-hearted for the weight of such responsibility. Rather than viewing this as a slight, he was encouraged to continue being an exemplary follower, to persist in his good deeds, and to find honour in that path of quiet, faithful service.
The Amir used this profound example to remind members that being passed over for a particular role is not a measure of one’s worth or standing before Allah. What matters, he stressed, is the sincerity of purpose and the willingness to serve in whatever capacity one finds oneself. His message was ultimately one of collective ownership that the Jama’at is not built by a select few, but by the faithful, consistent commitment of every member.
The ceremony was graced by several distinguished Jama’at dignitaries, reflecting the importance of the occasion to the wider Jama’at. In attendance were the Naib Amir for Finance and Administration, Alhaji (Engr.) Mufadhil Bankole; former Amir of AMJN, Alhaji Comrade H. O. Sumonu; General Secretary Alhaji Ayelagbe Abdul Jabar, Sadr Majlis Ansarullah, Alhaji Dauda A. Raji; and the National Jaidad Secretary, Builder Towolawi B. S. A. Also present were longstanding and revered members of the Osogbo Jama’at, Alhaji Alawode and Alhaji BenSalah, whose years of faithful service to the local community lent the occasion an added sense of heritage and continuity.
The reconstruction of the Central Mosque is expected to produce a more befitting and expansive place of worship for the growing Ahmadiyya Muslim community in Osogbo, further consolidating the Jama’at’s presence and outreach across Osun State.
