By Abdulquadri Olanrewaju
The former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Ambassador Sarafadeen Tunji Ishola, has described the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community as the true representatives of what Islam stands for, citing its immense contributions to Nigeria’s socio-economic development over the last century.
Speaking at the 71st Jalsa Salana 2025 (Annual Convention) in Ilaro, the diplomat lauded the Jama’at for being a beacon of development since its establishment in Nigeria in 1916. He highlighted that the Community has moved beyond mere rhetoric to embark on critical missions in the education and health sectors that have significantly bolstered the nation’s progress.
“The Ahmadiyya Jama’at has embarked upon several missions in different sectors like education, health, and NGOs,” Ambassador Ishola stated. “All these positive contributions have helped a lot in socio-economic development in Nigeria in general.”
The Ambassador further noted that the discipline witnessed on the Jalsa ground was a practical reflection of these high values, expressing deep admiration for the serene atmosphere and the conduct of the thousands of participants, noting that such orderliness is a testament to the community’s high spiritual and moral standards.
“When I got here, I saw discipline; it shows a high sense of organization,” he remarked. “I am deeply encouraged by this serene atmosphere, and I want to assure you that you are a true representative of what Islam stands for.”
Ambassador Ishola also used the platform to issue a passionate plea for Muslim unity across Nigeria. He urged the faithful to look beyond sectarian differences and focus on the fundamental pillars that bind them together, warning that division only exposes society to insecurity.
“My message to Muslims is to behave as brothers because of the oneness of Islam,” he stated. “It is the same Surah Fatiha and Kalima we read throughout the world. The things that unite us are more than whatever we may think divide us.”
Challenging the community to expand its sphere of influence, he urged the leadership of the Ahmadiyya Jama’at to extend the spirit of togetherness found within the Jalsa to other Islamic sects. He argued that if all Muslims can achieve the unity he witnessed at the convention—where thousands see themselves as one big family, there will be peace and progress across the nation and the world at large.
Declaring the convention a “blessed one,” and visibly impressed by the spiritual and social impact of the gathering, Ambassador Ishola pledged his continued support, promising to grace the gathering every year to witness the peaceful propagation of Islam.
