By Lawal Ibraheem Olaniyi
The Jalsa Salana Nigeria is an annual Islamic conference organized by the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Nigeria, bringing together thousands of Ahmadi Muslims from across the nation. Within days, the once-empty Jamia land transforms into a bustling tent city, hosting attendees from diverse ethnic backgrounds. This spiritual retreat aims to promote the true teachings of Islam through faith-inspiring lectures, exhibitions, and various events.
The success of this event is made possible by the tireless efforts of thousands of volunteers who arrive early at the Jalsa site to ensure proper preparations for the esteemed guests of the Promised Messiah (as).
This year marks the 70th Jalsa Salana, and our team had the privilege of meeting the Officer Jalsa Salana, Engr. Oluwa Kazeem, who shared insights into the new features and upgrades planned for this year’s convention.
Some of the notable developments at the Jalsa Gah include:
Key Upgrades and Features
1. Kitchen Area
Significant enhancements have been made to the kitchen facilities:
- Upgraded lighting systems to improve visibility and efficiency.
- The purchase of new pots to cater to the growing number of attendees.
2. Market Area
- The market entry gates have been repositioned. Unlike last year, where the gate was directly opposite the female entrance, the new gates now lead to the male entrance and the car park. This adjustment helps reduce congestion at the female gate.
- Market shops have been upgraded from bamboo structures to more durable iron pipe constructions.
3. Sanitary Section
- The sanitary department has increased the number of facilities, particularly lavatories.
- A separate section has been designated for children, reducing congestion in the main toilets, especially during peak sessions.
4. Dining Section
This year, there are seven dining areas, divided into sections for males and females:
Male Dining Areas:
- The former kids’ dining hall has been converted into an adults’ dining area.
- A second dining hall for men is near the new Hafiz class building.
- The third is designated for children and adjoins the kids’ section.
- The fourth dining hall, reserved for elderly men, is close to the adults’ residence.
Female Dining Areas:
- Dining facilities are located in the old stage section,
- the former dining area, and
- the adults’ dining hall.
5. Residential Marquee
A new marquee has been installed adjacent to the main marquee, providing additional space for attendees to rest and store their belongings.
6. Construction and Aesthetics
The venue’s aesthetics have been significantly enhanced with improved utilities and facilities:
- Zinc barricades, traditionally used to secure the grounds, have been replaced with white flex barricades, offering a cleaner and more visually appealing appearance.
7. Media Halls, Exhibition, and Humanity First Marquee
- These facilities have been relocated backstage for better organization.
- A new Jalsa Radio studio has been established in the female section, ensuring enhanced accessibility and communication.
As preparations are in full swing, attendees can anticipate a more organized and comfortable experience at this year’s Jalsa Salana. These new upgrades reflect the dedication of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jamaat Nigeria to making the Jalsa Salana a spiritually uplifting and memorable event for all participants.
