11/02/2026
New Dawn for Islam in Yorubaland as League of Imams and Alfas Is Inaugurated, As It Sets To Collaborate With Northern Counterparts.
A new chapter has opened for Islam in Yorubaland following the successful inauguration of the League of Imams and Alfas of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta States, held on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, in Iwo, Osun State. The landmark event marked a renewed resolve among Islamic leaders to pursue unity, strategic cooperation, and purposeful leadership for the advancement of Islam in the South-West and neighbouring regions.
The inauguration attracted prominent Imams, Islamic scholars, and representatives of respected Islamic families from across the region. The gathering reflected a broad consensus on the need for a coordinated platform capable of addressing the religious, social, economic, and political challenges confronting Muslims in Yorubaland. The league is expected to play a central role in strengthening the Muslim Ummah through education, economic empowerment, and effective engagement with relevant stakeholders, while also safeguarding the dignity, security, and collective interests of Yoruba Muslims.
A key objective of the newly formed league is to deepen collaboration with Muslim leaders and organisations in Northern Nigeria, with the aim of fostering greater unity and shared progress across the national Ummah. Participants at the event described the initiative as timely, noting that stronger inter-regional ties are essential for addressing common challenges facing Muslims across the country.
The event recorded the presence of students, relatives, and associates of renowned Islamic scholars such as Sheikh Muritado Abdul Salam, Sheikh Abdul Baaqi Muhammad, Sheikh Kamaldeen, and Sheikh Adam Al-Ilory. Their participation underscored the wide acceptance of the league across generations and diverse Islamic traditions.
Addressing the gathering, the Grand M***i clarified that the league was not established to oppose or undermine any individual or group. Rather, he described it as a constructive response to the growing concerns of Muslims in the South-West. He emphasized that unity, coordination, and purposeful engagement remain critical to the protection and progress of the Muslim Ummah, particularly in a rapidly changing social and political environment.
Other speakers at the event, including the Chief Imam of Ido and Imam Ajingini, called for inclusive and non-hereditary leadership within the league. They stressed that credibility, fairness, and openness in leadership would be vital to sustaining unity and ensuring the long-term relevance of the organisation.
The inauguration also drew representatives of various leagues and Islamic bodies, including the Secretary-General of the League of Imams and Alfas, Oyo State, as well as delegates from Ogbomosho, Lagos, Oyo, Ogun States, Imam Sepeteri, and other parts of the South-West. Their presence highlighted the regional importance of the league and the collective support it enjoys.
In his concluding remarks, the Grand M***i reiterated that his commitment to the league was rooted in service rather than the pursuit of authority. He urged members to remain focused on addressing the real needs and welfare of Muslims, describing selfless leadership as the foundation for meaningful progress.
Observers have described the inauguration as a major milestone that signals a renewed commitment to unity, cooperation, and responsible leadership, offering fresh hope for the future of Islam in Yorubaland and beyond.
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