The 2025 edition of the Maolud Nabiyy Celebration, organized by the Omituntun Benedict Forum (OBF), was held in a spiritually charged atmosphere as dignitaries, religious leaders, and community stakeholders gathered to honour the birth of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
With the theme “The Blessing of the Birth of the Prophet,” the event featured Sheikh Hamad Labeeb Lagbaji (Ijoba) as the guest speaker.
In his lecture, Sheikh Lagbaji drew remarkable comparisons between the deeds of Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and those of Oloye Benedict Akika, the Founder and President of OBF, likening their acts of service, compassion, and generosity to the noble examples set by the Prophet.
“They are doing things of Allah,” Sheikh Lagbaji declared, describing Governor Makinde as “the best thing that has happened to Oyo State at this time and one of the finest leaders in Nigeria.”
“I have never met Governor Seyi Makinde but I was inspired by the Iseyin Expressway and reports which I have about him”.
He further extolled both Makinde and Akika as capacity-driven, responsible, and strategic leaders whose leadership continues to impact lives positively.
In his welcome address, Oloye Benedict Akika expressed joy and gratitude for the large turnout. He noted that while OBF is renowned for its annual Ramadan lectures and Iftar programs, this year’s decision to host the Maolud Nabiyy celebration as third annual program which is to further promote unity, spiritual reflection, and gratitude for divine blessings.
Akika appreciated the unwavering support of Governor Makinde and prayed that “all good wishes and aspirations for 2027 come to reality.”
He also extended heartfelt thanks to traditional rulers, political figures, community leaders, and clerics across Oyo State who graced the event.
The Grand Imam of Yorubaland officially declared the celebration open, offering special prayers for Governor Makinde, Oloye Akika, and the continued peace and prosperity of Oyo State.
Also in attendance were the Executive Chairmen of Akinyele and Lagelu Local Governments, Hon. Akinwole Akinleye and Hon. Morenikeji Mudashiru Kamorudeen, respectively.
They commended Akika for his consistency in promoting religious harmony and social development through the OBF platform.
Other notable dignitaries included Engr. Abduljelyl Adekunle Kareem (MCIArb, MCIOB, MCABE); Mogaji Adanla of Ibadan; Alhaji Elelubo, Alhaji Olalekan Moshood, Chairman of Al-Moruf Oluyole Hajj & Umrah Services; Alhaja Wulemot Ibitoye, Iya Adinni of Lagelu West; Hon. Abayomi Fagbenro-Bibire; Hon. Ramata Agberemi Dabo (RAD), Oyo CSDA Chairman; Alhaji Adetokunbo Adeaga, and Hon. Olamide Settle.
The event was further graced by League of Imams and Alfas Lagelu West and Environs ; Moniya (Alhaji AbdulRasheed), Olorunda-Abaa (Alhaji Idris Ayilara, Lakuru, Imam Omituntun (Alhaji Lanase) and S. A. Islamic (Imam AbdulRasheed) whereas the Ololorunda of Olorunda-Aba who led a delegation of traditional rulers including the Elejioku of Ejioku, Onilalupon of Lalupon, Baale Kajola and Baale Eleruko.
Also present were various religious and social groups such as the Jamniyat Solihat Alasalatu Akobo Ibadan, Nigeria Beautician and Hairdresser Association (NBHA) Oyo State Chapter, Ibadan Vanguard Sisters (IVS) of CCII, Omituntun Ladies, PMS Olorunda-Abaa, and several others who gave goodwill remarks.
Leaders from Akinyele Local Government including Engr. Akinsola, Baba Akin Aderibigbe, Baba Sulaimon Arowosaye, Baba Akeem Adewale, Hon. Dayo Opatokun, Hon. Lateef Alaya, and Hon. Solomon Ere were also in attendance whereas leader from Akinyele Local Government, Former Commissioner Oribayo Okeyode.
The association from Lagelu West: Nigeria Union of Taliors, Nigeria Union of Shoemakers, Okadas and others
The event, filled with prayers, praises, and reflection, reaffirmed the OBF’s commitment to promoting peace, faith, and community development under the visionary leadership of Oloye Benedict Akika.
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