COURTESY VISITS AND OFFICIAL ENGAGEMENTS OF THE GRAND CHIEF IMAM OF OYOLAND ACROSS OYO TOWN

Date: 22nd January, 2026

The Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, on Thursday, 22nd January, 2026, embarked on a series of courtesy visits and official engagements across Oyo town, accompanied by members of his entourage and representatives of Islamic organizations.

Representing Robithotul Sabab during the outing were Dr. Habibullahi and Maradesa Ibrahim Alagbada El-Mufty, who joined the Chief Imam, fondly regarded as a peace builder, on the day’s activities. Upon arrival, the delegation was warmly received by the Grand Chief Imam with great respect and cordiality.

The first point of call was RCM (St. Mary’s Catholic) Primary School, Ashogo, Oyo, the alma mater of the Grand Chief Imam. A thanksgiving programme was held in appreciation of the school, its former administrators, and teachers for their invaluable contributions to his upbringing and the formative role they played during his early education. The visit was emotionally significant, reflecting gratitude, humility, and respect for teachers as builders of society.

From there, the entourage briefly visited Obada, where a poverty alleviation programme was ongoing, before proceeding to Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo. At the university, the delegation visited the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, where members of staff were formally introduced. The team thereafter proceeded to the Vice-Chancellor’s Office, where the university management and other distinguished personalities warmly welcomed the Grand Chief Imam and his entourage.

In his address, the Grand Chief Imam emphasized the inseparable bond between faith, education, and community service, noting that universities are not only centers of academic excellence but also institutions where character, values, and responsibility are nurtured. He expressed appreciation to the Vice-Chancellor and the university community for their commitment to knowledge, leadership, and social harmony.

Responding, the Vice-Chancellor spoke on the ongoing construction of the university mosque and expressed his desire to see it completed during his tenure. The Grand Chief Imam assured the management that Allah had already facilitated the completion, urging that the cost implications be presented, while affirming that many faithful are willing to support the cause of the Deen.

After the engagement at Emmanuel Alayande University, the entourage proceeded to Atiba University, Oyo, where the Grand Chief Imam met with the university management and members of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN). Fruitful discussions were held, marked by mutual appreciation and optimism over positive developments within the institution.

The day’s engagements further included a visit to Aremo Stadium, where notable sons of the land gathered to receive the Grand Chief Imam, underscoring the respect and affection he commands across Oyo Land.

These visits collectively reflect the Grand Chief Imam’s unwavering commitment to education, gratitude to his roots, promotion of peaceful coexistence, and dedication to community development across religious and institutional boundaries.

Signed:

Office of the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land
Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu