By Abdulquadri Olanrewaju
The National President (Sadr) of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Nigeria (MKAN), also known as Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Organization, Mr. Abdur Roqib Akinyemi, has called on Nigerian youths to take responsibility for personal and national transformation, urging them to rise above societal blame and become agents of change. He made this call during a radio interview on Fresh FM 104.9, Osogbo, on Thursday, April 17th, 2025, as part of activities leading up to the 51st National Ijtema of the organization.
Speaking about the mission of the youth wing of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Mr. Akinyemi explained that the organization was established in 1938 by the Second Caliph of the Worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, Hadhrat Mirza Bashirudeen Mahmud Ahmad, with a global mandate to instill spiritual values, promote peace, and engage in humanitarian service.
He noted that Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya operates with a core focus on service to God and humanity, and trains young Muslims to lead upright lives, eschew crime, and participate meaningfully in community service.
“The aim of the Ahmadiyya Community, and the purpose for which it was founded, is to restore the true teachings of Islam and correct misconceptions, especially those promoting extremism. Our youth wing is a vanguard of individual and societal reformation,” Mr. Akinyemi said.
While addressing the misconceptions about religion and radicalization, he reaffirmed that Islam does not compel belief, and emphasized the peaceful message of the Ahmadiyya Community. “The Promised Messiah foretold by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has come, and his mission is to gather people under the banner of true Islam, through peace, love, and reasoned faith.”
Turning to the theme of this year’s convention, the MKAN President expressed deep concern about the direction many young people are heading, attributing it to poor upbringing, lack of personal discipline, and societal influences. He however maintained that no one is without responsibility.
“You don’t have to blame the government, the society, or your parents,” he said. “You should ask yourself what you can do personally, to make your life and your society better.”
Mr. Akinyemi urged youths to reflect on their God-given potential and take charge of their destinies. “Africa, and Nigeria in particular, is filled with problems. But every problem presents a chance for you to make a difference. If you find what you can solve, you begin to build not just your future but your legacy.”
He continued by highlighting the transformative power of community involvement. “When you participate in societal development, you yourself develop. It is impossible to give light to others and remain in darkness.”
The Sadr concluded that the 51st National Ijtema of Majlis Khuddamul Ahmadiyya Nigeria is enriched with various lectures, symposiums, and spiritual sessions aimed at building responsible and service-driven youth across the country.
