By Abdulquadri Olanrewaju
The Acting National President (Sadr) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Organization of Nigeria, Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya (MKAN), Mr. Idris Fashina, has announced the commencement of the organization’s 51st Annual National Convention, known as the National Ijtema.
Mr. Fashina made this known during a press conference held on Wednesday, April 16th, 2025, ahead of the youth gathering scheduled to hold from Thursday, April 17th, to Sunday, April 20th, 2025, at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Ede, Osun State.
He stated that this year’s Ijtema, themed “Our Pledge. Our Responsibility,” is aimed at reinforcing the commitment of Nigerian youths to service, moral reformation, and community development, in accordance with Islamic teachings and national ideals.
“This theme is not just a slogan,” he said, “but a reminder of the pledge everyone has taken to serve God, our nation, and humanity with honesty, integrity, and unwavering dedication.”
The Ijtema, which began in 1972, has grown into one of Nigeria’s largest annual Muslim youth gatherings, drawing participants from across the country and beyond. Delegates are expected from Ghana, Kenya, Burkina Faso, and the Benin Republic, reflecting the international nature of the event.
The Acting Sadr noted that the convention will feature various spiritual, intellectual, health, and community-based programmes, including a free medical outreach scheduled for Thursday, April 17th, at the palace of the Timi of Ede, aimed at providing basic healthcare services to residents.
He added that there will also be lectures, Qur’anic recitations, career and entrepreneurship workshops, interfaith dialogue, sports competitions, and a Peace Road Walk designed to promote peaceful coexistence and the true message of Islam.
A major highlight of the event will be the Grand Symposium taking place on Saturday, April 19th, at Admus International Event Centre, opposite Redeemer University, Ede. The Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke, is expected as the Special Guest of Honour. Also expected at the event are the pioneer President of the Nigerian Labour Congress, Alhaji Hassan Adebayo Sunmonu, as Royal Father of the Day, and the Amir (National Head) of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at of Nigeria, Alhaji (Barr.) Alatoye Folorunso Abdul Azeez, who will serve as Chairman of the Day.
Mr. Fashina expressed gratitude to the government and people of Osun State for hosting the event and called on all members and well-wishers of the Jama’at to fully participate in the convention.
He concluded by saying, “This Ijtema is inclusive and open to all peace-loving individuals who share in our vision for a better world through spirituality, education, and service,” adding that “we invite all members of the public, media houses, and stakeholders in youth development to witness the activities of the Ijtema and support our efforts in building a morally upright and progressive society.”
The National Ijtema remains a key platform for shaping the future of youths and nurturing a generation of leaders committed to peace, righteousness, and national unity.
