By Abdulquadri Olanrewaju
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria has marked the Platinum Jubilee of its annual convention, Jalsa Salana, from December 20th to 22nd, 2024, at Jamia Ahmadiyya, Ilaro-Owode, Ogun State. The event commemorated 70 years of fostering spiritual growth, national unity, and moral rejuvenation.
In his opening remarks, the Amir (National President) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Alhaji (Barr.) Alatoye Folorunso Azeez, officially inaugurated the convention with a ceremonial flag-hoisting. His thought-provoking inaugural address revolved around the theme: “And We have not sent thee (O Muhammad) but as a Mercy unto mankind” (Quran 21:108). He highlighted the exemplary life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) as a model of compassion, justice, and mercy.
One of the main highlights of the convention was a lecture by Prof. Sa’eed Olurotimi Timehin, a renowned Islamic scholar and senior lecturer at Lagos State University (LASU). Prof. Timehin underscored the universal relevance of the Prophet’s teachings, describing them as a blueprint for addressing contemporary challenges, including Nigeria’s quest for good governance. His lecture delved into the Prophet’s qualities as a transformative leader, emphasizing administrative excellence, outstanding principles, and unparalleled compassion.
The event featured an array of activities, including recitations of the Holy Qur’an, eulogies for the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), lectures by esteemed scholars, and a special message from the Worldwide Head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (aba). Notable Nigerian leaders and dignitaries graced the occasion, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Hon. Idris Ajimobi, Senior Special Assistant on Livestock Development; state governors; and religious, traditional, and political leaders. Special prayers were offered for Nigeria’s peace and development.
In a press conference prior to the event, the Amir reflected on the historical journey of Jalsa Salana, which began in April 1949 with 75 participants at the Ahmadiyya Central Mosque on Ojo Giwa Street, Lagos Island. He drew parallels to the first-ever Jalsa Salana in Qadian, India, in 1891, also attended by 75 participants. The Amir emphasized that the Jalsa serves as a platform to address societal challenges, particularly moral and leadership deficiencies.
The Platinum Jubilee drew a remarkable turnout of 36,263 participants, including 5,703 guests. The Jalsa Salana continues to be a global phenomenon, attracting millions worldwide and reinforcing Ahmadiyya’s commitment to peace, spiritual enlightenment, and societal progress.
Prominent figures who have attended past conventions include former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, former Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo, and other notable leaders who commended the Jama’at for its impactful contributions to national and global development.
