Jama-at-ul Islamiyya of Nigeria elects Engineer Ashim Oyekan as its President

The election was part of the three-day 11th Triennial Delegates Conference held on Sunday, August 20, 2023, at the Mosque Hall, Magodo GRA phase II, Lagos.

In his acceptance speech, Oyekan reiterated the need for the newly elected National Executive Council to be forthright on the tasks ahead in consolidating the gains made by the Islamic organisation. 

Oyekan was a former Commissioner of Environment and Physical Planning and Agriculture, Co-operative and Rural Development in Lagos State. 

He was appointed acting Group Chairman, LASACO Assurance Plc and has served on the board of directors of many reputable organisations in Nigeria.

The event also featured a special Jumat service, lecture and election of new members of the National Executive Council. 

The public lecture themed “Muslims and the culture diversity and Disunity: Challenges and the way forward”, was delivered by Professor Ismail A. Musa, the Chief Imam of UNILAG Muslim Community.

According to Prof. Ismail, Muslims do not want to associate and partner with one another in the educational systems in Nigeria, everyone wants to stand on his or her own. 

He admonished Muslim and Islamic organisations on the need for unity in line with Allah’s directives in the holy Quran.

He also advised Muslims and Islamic associations to imbibe the Islamic principles of brotherhood. This according to him will enhance their strength and Islam in Nigeria.

He further emphasized the need for collaboration among Islamic organisations for the provision of qualitative educational services for Nigerian Muslims across all levels particularly at the university level. 

In attendance at the lecture were Justice Habeeb Abiru of the Court of Appeal, Prof. Tajudeen Gbadamosi, Chairman Lagos Muslim Community, Halimat Oluwayemisi Busari, Senior Adviser, Government Relations, Honeywell Groups and other prominent Nigerians.

In his valedictory speech, the former President of the Association, Taofeek O. Agbaja, said his administration's first mandate which started in March 2015 was renewed at the 10th Triennial Delegates Conference in March 2018. 

He highlighted some of the achievements of his administration which include the development of the Jamaat properties, increased welfare scheme for members and dedicated focus for the upliftment of the Organization.

He noted that Jama-at-ul Islamiyya of Nigeria is witnessing qualitative improvement in terms of financial base and expansion of its numerous projects.