In a historic ceremony on January 1, 2025, Alhaji Tajudeen Abioye, Chairman/MD of Ojibabs Nigeria Limited, was installed as Balogun Adini Nasrul Ilmi, an esteemed Islamic chieftaincy title. The grand event, hosted by the Jamma’at Nasrul Ilmi Central Mosque, took place at St. Kizito Catholic College, Ikirun, Osun State, Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in Islamic leadership and community development.
The event also featured a multi-billion naira fundraising initiative for the construction of a SMART Masjid at Oke’ba, Ikirun. The event attracted spiritual leaders, royal fathers, political figures, and philanthropists from across Nigeria and the diaspora.
Alhaji Abioye’s installation as Balogun Adini Nasrul Ilmi recognized his commitment to Islamic values and his contributions to the growth of the faith in Osun State and beyond. As the chief fundraiser for the SMART Masjid project, he also laid the foundation stone for the mosque during the ceremony.
In his speech, Alhaji Abioye shared his long-held aspiration to build a mosque, a dream he expressed with humility and gratitude. “It has always been on my mind to build a mosque, and this opportunity has made it a reality. I promise to work with the community to ensure its success,” he said. He pledged to fully embrace his new role and assured the gathering that his chieftaincy title would be a platform for service and progress.
The event was chaired by Otunba Sarafadeen Abiodun Awotunde, who commended the honorees for their dedication to the growth and unity of the Muslim Ummah. It was hosted by the Asiwaju of Ikirunland, Retired DIG Gazali Adewale-Lawal, a mentor and uncle to the honoree, who praised Alhaji Abioye’s visionary leadership.
The ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries, including Senator Dr. Akogun Lere Oyewumi, Hon. Soji Abidemi Adetunji (MHR), Hon. Abimbola Ajilesoro (MHR), Hon. Akani Olorunwa (MHR), Hon. Abdul Rasheed Afolabi, and Hon. Abdul Lateef Bola Ajao.
Other prominent guests included Hon. Hassan Adegoke, Hon. Tajudeen Adeyemi, Bar. Hashim Abioye, Ibukun Fadipe (Chairman, SUBEB), Alh. Kaseem Adebayo (Chief of Staff, Osun State), Alh. Teslim Igbalaye (SSG, Osun State), Dr. BT Salam, Ambassador Philip Ojo, Alh. Nasiru Oluwatoyin, Alh. Wasiu Adepoju (CEO, Fortunate Bread, Osogbo), Alh. Hakeem Afolabi (Sara Motors), Alh. Shehu Abimbola Olorunisola, Alh. Mustafa Adeleke Olawuyi, and Alh. Maruf Ajibola.
The event featured the unveiling of the SMART Masjid project, designed by Arch. Prince Abdulwaha Olalekan Usman. The mosque integrates modern architecture with Islamic tradition, providing facilities for worship, education, and community development. A 3D animation of the mosque design captivated the audience, highlighting its role as a beacon of faith and innovation.
The fundraising session showcased the generosity of diaspora contributors, including Sarafadeen Olamide Olaniyan, Abimbola Ayanwuyi, Lateef Adebayo Lawal, Alhaji Ademola Lawal, Alhaji Tayo, Zaheed Ajadi Adebisi, Alhaja Lateefat Olayinka Awotunde, and Alhaji Adesoye Bello, whose contributions underscored the global commitment of the Muslim Ummah to the project.
The event was graced by royal fathers who offered prayers and support, including HRH Oba Adekunle Abdul-Waheed Babatunde, Elende of Eko-Ende Land, HRH Oba Jimoh Isiaka Adesina Ajarabiolu, Alase of Ilase-Ijesa, HRH Oba Qamarudeen Adeyemi Adeyanju Bello, Olororuwo of Ororuwo Land, High Chief Abdul Kareem Adetoyese Lawal, Eesa of Ikirun Land, and HRM Olunlosin of Eko-Ajala.
The ceremony included a beautiful recitation from the Holy Quran, emphasizing the event’s spiritual significance.
