By Lawal Ibraheem Olaniyi
The Ahmadiyya Cycling Association of Nigeria (ACAN) contributed to the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria with a memorable cycling rally on Thursday, November 19th, 2024. The event highlighted the community’s spirit of unity and dedication to promoting physical and mental well-being.
The rally commenced in Igbogbo, Ikorodu, with a six-member cycling team embarking on a challenging 109-kilometer journey to the Jalsa Salana venue. The team made their first stop at the Ahmadiyya National Headquarters in Ojokoro, where they received prayers and encouragement from the Amir of Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Alh. (Barr.) Alatoye Folorunso Azeez, and the Amir of Ghana, Maulana Muhammad bin Salih.
Engr. Kamaldeen Bello, ACAN’s Coordinator, shared the details of the journey, saying: “The team started in Ikorodu, stopped at Ojokoro for prayers, proceeded to Papalanto, and concluded the journey at Jamia Ahmadiyya, the Jalsa grounds.”
The rally, which took over five hours to complete, showcased the cyclists’ determination and commitment. Engr. Bello also emphasized the benefits of cycling, noting its role in enhancing physical fitness, mental resilience, and psychological well-being.
The Platinum Jubilee Jalsa Salana marked 70 years of the annual convention in Nigeria, bringing together members from across the country and beyond. The cycling rally was a vibrant addition to the celebration, symbolizing the Jama’at’s dedication to holistic development and community engagement.
This successful rally demonstrated the synergy between spirituality and physical activity, leaving a lasting impression on the participants and the wider community.