The Anwar-ul-Islam Movement of Nigeria, one of the country’s oldest Muslim organisations, concluded its 2025 Annual National Conference with the turbaning of Sheikh Musliudeen Adebola Afisi as its new National Chief Imam and Missioner.
The ceremony, held on Sunday, November 2, at the Jubril Martins Memorial High School, Iponri, Lagos, also featured a merit award presentation to the outgoing National President, Alhaji Mubashir Ojelade, for his dedicated service and leadership.
The event, which spanned three days beginning Thursday, drew hundreds of members, dignitaries, and friends of the Movement from across Nigeria.
The conference featured spiritual sessions, lectures, and official handovers marking a new chapter for the 109-year-old Islamic body.
In his farewell address, Alhaji Mubashir Ojelade expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for a successful tenure and the smooth conduct of the conference. He commended members and committees for their support throughout his nine-year leadership.
“From Thursday through Sunday, all the activities were well attended and smoothly executed. I thank Allah, the committees, and all Muslim leaders who honoured the event,” he said.
Reflecting on his time in office, Ojelade highlighted progress made in the educational arm of the Movement. “Our secondary schools are now in a much better state. We’ve taken bold steps, and I believe the next administration will surpass us,” he noted, while also praying for the success of the incoming leadership.
The newly appointed Chief Imam, Sheikh Musliudeen Adebola Afisi, described his appointment as a divine responsibility rather than an honour to be celebrated, admitting that he felt both “hopeful and anxious” about the role.
“As the Imam and Missioner, I feel overwhelmed. This isn’t a moment for celebration yet – not until one delivers effectively. I pray that Allah grants me the strength to fulfil this duty,” he said.
Sheikh Afisi revealed that he never aspired to become an Imam, noting that the role came to him through divine orchestration. “Even when the idea came up, I rejected it several times, but ultimately, Allah’s will prevailed,” he stated.
The cleric, who has served Anwar-ul-Islam in various capacities for decades, including as a personal assistant to a former Imam and pioneer secretary of the Hajj Committee in the 1990s, said his lifelong service to the Movement prepared him for this new phase.
Guided by Islamic Principles
Speaking on his educational background, Sheikh Afisi said he studied at Morkaz Zulikha Abiola Arabic & Islamic Studies Centre, Abeokuta (1984–1991), and holds a degree in Arabic, English and Literature from Lagos State University. He is also a certified Human Resources professional.
On the selection process, the new Imam said it was conducted through the Islamic shurah (consultation) method, guided by strict principles and transparency. “Leadership in Islam is about character and service. The organisation was looking for someone whose life reflects Islamic ideals,” he said.
Vision and Message to the Ummah
Sheikh Afisi emphasised that his mission is to preserve, not reinvent, Islamic teachings. “Islam is complete and has been complete for centuries. My role is to ensure that our members practise Islam strictly according to the Qur’an and Sunnah—no more, no less,” he said.
He urged Muslims to shun divisions and ethnic sentiments. “The Ummah must avoid bigotry. We are all equal before Allah, and the only distinction is taqwa (God-consciousness),” he added.
The new Imam also reminded public officials that leadership is a trust from Allah. “Public office is not for personal gain. Leaders must serve with sincerity and selflessness. When they do, Allah will bless their efforts,” he advised.
Associates and Scholars Commend Selection
Associates and former colleagues of Sheikh Afisi hailed his appointment, describing him as a disciplined and visionary leader. Alhaji Abdul Azeez Abdul Razzaq Jumah, a former student of Morkaz Zulikha Abiola, recalled the Imam’s academic and moral excellence.
“Sheikh Afisi was my senior by one year. He was an exemplary student, respected by both teachers and peers. As the pioneer president of our alumni association, he led with humility and vision,” Jumah recounted.
Alhaji Shamsideen Alade Ganiu, a member of the selection committee, described the process as a “credible and God-guided” exercise. “The Imam was chosen through a thorough shurah process. His background, knowledge, and fear of Allah made him the best candidate,” he said.
He revealed that the committee considered not just academic qualifications but also personal conduct and family life. “How a man treats his wife and family says a lot about his character,” he noted.
