By AbdulMusowir Akorede
The maiden edition of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria’s Rishta-Nata “Meet and Greet” program was successfully held during the 71st Jalsa Salana Nigeria, resulting in 41 new matches. The initiative brought together 82 individuals in a dignified and structured environment, providing a modest and organized matchmaking platform tailored to the needs of the community.
The program recorded strong participation, with over 325 members registering online ahead of the convention and more than 100 additional participants joining onsite during the Jalsa.
Speaking on the objective of the initiative, the General Secretary of Rishta-Nata Ahmadiyya Nigeria, Mr. Lamina Bashir, described the program as a necessary bridge for members seeking pious partners within the Jama’at. He explained that the absence of an internal platform often creates challenges, which the Jama’at sought to address through this project.
The National Rishta-Nata Secretary, Mr. Bashirdeen Oyetunji, noted that the project operates under the guidance and blessings of the Supreme Head of the worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (may Allah be his Helper). He added that following approval and prayers from the Khalifa, the Nigerian team worked closely with international Rishta-Nata offices to adopt global best practices.
According to him, the “Meet and Greet” program is modeled after similar initiatives in the UK, Canada, and Germany. He noted that the registration process was supported by a Germany-developed form and a UK-designed mobile application, to ensure efficiency, accessibility, and data security.
The National Rishta-Nata Secretary stated that the department implemented strict confidentiality protocols to safeguard modesty and privacy.
This was reflected in the selection of team members based on high standards of integrity, while participants’ information was shared only with their explicit consent.
Beyond introductions, the initiative includes a thorough verification and monitoring process. Once matched, experienced facilitators guide participants through a structured timeline, with couples typically given six months to one year to finalize marriage arrangements. The process is later transitioned to circuit missionaries and family representatives to ensure a smooth and formal union.
With over 425 participants expressing interest in the initiative during this year’s Jalsa, the Rishta-Nata Department reaffirmed its commitment to building ‘divine, happy homes’ grounded in the principles of Islam Ahmadiyya.
