By Olanrewaju Agiri
THE Oyo State chapter of the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations (NACOMYO) has thanked Governor Seyi Makinde for his unwavering support of the organization’s operations and his receptiveness to Islam, particularly his recent proclamation of a public holiday in observance of Hijrah 1447, which highlights his dedication to religious demands.
The state coordinator of NACOMYO, Alhaji Dawood Afolabi, made calls during his speech at the grand Hijrah 1447 celebration, which took place on Sunday, June 29, at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, where he described the governor’s gesture as a reflection of leadership grounded in fairness and respect for religious diversity.
Speaking on the crisis in the Middle East, Afolabi said NACOMYO called for collective action from the international community to address the multifaceted crises and urged for immediate cessation of arms supplies and unified diplomatic efforts to restore peace and provide humanitarian relief to the afflicted region.
The programme featured Qur’an recitations, a lecture by a prominent Islamic scholar, Shaykh Nasirudeen Kharasi, a march past by numerous Islamic schools, and the conferment of awards to some personalities recognising their contributions to Islam and humanity.
Among the awardees are Prof. Babatunde Salako, Alh. Dawud Olalere Dal-Ameen, Alh. Chief Kamoru Aderibigbe, Alh. Hakeem Azeez, the personal assistant to Gov. Makinde, who was presented with Dawah Ambassador of the Year, Alh. Tajudeen Aminu Yellow, Dr. Ibrahim Adelani, and Alhaja Semiat Afunleyin.
Other award recipients are Alh. Sheik Ayinla Muhammad and Dr. Abdul-Rahamon Oriyomi Hamzat, the CEO of Agidigbo FM, who was presented with the Distinguished Media Dawah Personality of the Year. Additionally, Alh. Jamiu Atilola Adedigba and Alh. Imam Sheik Ash-Sha’ayu Mosobalaje Busari olori-aje are among the award recipients.
Delivering his messages, Oyo State Deputy Governor Barr. AbdurRaheem Bayo Lawal prayed for continued peace, progress, and prosperity in Oyo State and across Nigeria as Muslims begin the new Islamic year.
While congratulating Muslim brothers and sisters all over the state on the occasion of the annual celebration of Hijrah 1447, the deputy governor, however, implored them to use the occasion to continue to promote peace and harmony among the people irrespective of religion, ethnicity, and tribal sentiment in the state.
“Muslims are encouraged to unite with the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde to advance the state. It is important for them to present a unified front to advocate for their interests and promote the progress of Islam in the state.”
Other dignitaries in attendance were Alh. Chief Nureni Akanbi, the Arole Iba; Alh. Chief Tiamiyu Olawoore; and Chief Bayo Oyero, who chaired the occasion. Alh. Sekinat Oyekola, the Iya Adini of Yorubaland. Alhaja Ambassador Ramat Romoke Ayinde, the Iyalaje Adini of Oyo State; Senator Sarafadeen Abiodun Alli; and Alh. Monsuru Alayinka Adiamoh. Alh. Wasiu Adeleke, the Secretary of PDP Oyo State, among others.
