IBSLWG Chairman, Hon. Kehinde Akande Congratulates Muslim Ummah on Hijrah 1448 AH, Calls for More Peaceful Coexistence

..urges residents to embrace unity, tolerance as new Islamic year begins

The Executive Chairman of Ibadan South West Local Government, Hon. Kehinde Akande, has felicitated with the Muslim Ummah on the commencement of Hijrah 1448 AH, urging residents to use the new Islamic year as an opportunity to strengthen peace, unity, and mutual respect across communities.

In a statement issued Tuesday from the counil, Hon. Akande described Hijrah as more than a calendar event, calling it a period for reflection, renewal, and recommitment to values that build a just society.

“Hijrah teaches us migration from negative attitudes to positive ones, from division to unity, and from conflict to peaceful coexistence,” Akande said. “As we enter 1448 AH, I urge all Muslim brothers and sisters in Ibadan South West to reflect on these lessons and let them guide our daily interactions.”

The chairman noted that Ibadan South West remains one of the most diverse local government areas in Oyo State, with Muslims, Christians, and adherents of other faiths living side by side. He stressed that the council would continue to promote policies and programmes that protect religious freedom and foster harmony among residents.

Hon. Akande also commended Muslim leaders, clerics, and community groups for their consistent support of government initiatives on sanitation, security, and youth development. He called for sustained collaboration to address challenges facing the local government, including market development, road maintenance, and public health.

“As we mark this new year in the Islamic calendar, let us pray for peace in our land, prosperity for our people, and guidance for our leaders,” he added. “Ibadan South West will continue to be a place where every resident, regardless of faith or background, feels safe and valued.”

He prayed that 1448 AH would bring blessings, progress, and tranquillity to Muslim faithful and to the entire local government.

The Hijrah marks the migration of Prophet Muhammad from Makkah to Madinah in 622 CE and signals the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar.