Grand Chief Imam Congratulates Oyo Iyaloja General, Urges Unity Among Traders

Friday October 16th, 2026

The Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, has congratulated Princess Folashade Azeezat Nurudeen on her appointment as the Iyaloja General of Oyo State by Governor Seyi Makinde.

The Grand Chief Imam, in a congratulatory message issued through his Director of Media and Publicity, Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade, described the appointment as a recognition of the Iyaloja General’s experience, dedication and contributions to the development of trade and commerce in the state.

He expressed confidence that her return to the position would further strengthen unity among market associations, promote cooperation among traders and contribute to the economic development of Oyo State.

Sheikh Akeugberu recalled that the late Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Lamidi Olayiwola Adeyemi III, had installed Princess Nurudeen as the Iyaloja General on April 26, 2021, following endorsements by market leaders. He noted that her previous experience in the position had demonstrated her capacity to coordinate the affairs of traders and advance the interests of the market community.

The Grand Chief Imam particularly commended her humility and respectful disposition towards his office, describing these qualities as worthy of commendation. He said mutual respect between religious and community leaders remained essential to promoting understanding, peaceful coexistence and unity across the state.

He urged the newly appointed Iyaloja General to sustain her commitment to the welfare of traders, maintain cordial relationships with relevant stakeholders and discharge her responsibilities with fairness, integrity and a strong sense of accountability.

The cleric also called on market leaders, traders and artisans across the 33 local government areas of Oyo State to cooperate with the new Iyaloja General, stressing that collective support would be essential to the success of her administration.

While commending Governor Makinde for recognising the importance of organised market leadership, Sheikh Akeugberu expressed hope that the appointments would strengthen coordination among trade associations and promote a more prosperous commercial environment in the state.

He prayed that Almighty Allah would grant Princess Nurudeen wisdom, sound judgement, good health and the strength to discharge her responsibilities successfully.

The Grand Chief Imam further prayed for a peaceful and successful tenure, asking Allah to make her leadership a source of unity, progress and prosperity for traders and the people of Oyo State.

Mallam Ibrahim Agunbiade
Director of Media and Publicity
Office of the Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land