Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land undertakes courtesy visits across Oyo town
By KEMI KASUMU
Addressing the gathering, the Grand Chief Imam stressed the close relationship between faith, education, and community service, describing universities as institutions that nurture character, values, and social responsibility in addition to academic excellence.
The Grand Chief Imam of Oyo Land, Sheikh Al-Imam Barrister Bilal Husayn Akinola Akeugberu, on Thursday January 22, 2026 embarked on a series of courtesy visits and official engagements across Oyo town, accompanied by members of his entourage and representatives of Islamic organisations.
Among those present were representatives of Robithotul Sabab, Dr. Habibullahi and Maradesa Ibrahim Alagbada El-Mufty, who joined the Chief Imam — widely regarded as a peace builder — throughout the day’s engagements.
The visit commenced at RCM (St. Mary’s Catholic) Primary School, Ashogo, Oyo, the alma mater of the Grand Chief Imam, where a thanksgiving programme was held to appreciate the school, its former administrators, and teachers for their contributions to his early education and personal development.
The visit highlighted themes of gratitude, humility, and respect for teachers as key contributors to societal growth.
The delegation later made a brief stop over at Obada, where a poverty alleviation programme was ongoing, before proceeding to Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo.
At the university, the team visited the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, where staff members were formally introduced, and subsequently paid a courtesy call on the Vice-Chancellor.
The university management and other dignitaries also warmly received the Grand Chief Imam and his entourage.
Addressing the gathering, the Grand Chief Imam stressed the close relationship between faith, education, and community service, describing universities as institutions that nurture character, values, and social responsibility in addition to academic excellence.
He commended the university leadership for its commitment to knowledge, leadership, and social harmony.
In his response, the Vice-Chancellor spoke on the ongoing construction of the university mosque and expressed his intention to see the project completed during his tenure.
The Grand Chief Imam assured the management of support, urging that the project’s cost implications be presented and noting that many faithful were willing to contribute to its completion.
The entourage later visited Atiba University, Oyo, where the Grand Chief Imam met with the university management and members of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN). Discussions at the meeting focused on cooperation and positive developments within the institution.
The day’s activities concluded with a visit to Aremo Stadium, where prominent sons of the land gathered to receive the Grand Chief Imam, reflecting the esteem and goodwill he enjoys across Oyo Land.
The series of visits underscored the Grand Chief Imam’s commitment to education, community development, peaceful coexistence, and appreciation of his roots across religious and institutional lines.
