Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria Announces 70th Jalsa Salana Celebration

Theme: “Jalsa Salana Nigeria – 70 Years Down the Lane: Our Appreciation to Allah”

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Nigeria held a press conference on December 4, 2024, at its national headquarters in Ojokoro, Lagos, to announce the 70th Jalsa Salana. This landmark annual Islamic convention is scheduled for December 20–22, 2024, at Ilaro-Owode Road, Ogun State. The event will be celebrated under the theme “And We Have Sent Thee (Muhammad) Not But As a Mercy for All People” (Qur’an, 21:108).

In his opening address, the Amir of the Jama’at, Barrister Alatoye Folorunsho Azeez, highlighted the spiritual and historical significance of Jalsa Salana, tracing its origins back to 1891 when the founder, Hazrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (peace be upon him), initiated the convention in Qadian, India. Over the years, the gathering has grown to become a platform for spiritual reflection, Islamic education, and communal unity.

Reflecting on its evolution in Nigeria, the Amir noted that the first Nigerian Jalsa Salana was held in 1949 at the Ahmadiyya Central Mosque, Ojo Giwa Street, Lagos, with 75 attendees. The conference has since expanded, attracting thousands of participants annually. Notable milestones include the relocation of the event to various larger venues such as Saint George Hall and J.K. Randle Hall in Lagos, and eventually to its current site in Ilaro.

The Jalsa has been graced by eminent dignitaries, including former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo, and several governors and traditional leaders. The Amir emphasized the contributions of the Ahmadiyya Community to Nigeria, particularly in education, citing the establishment of numerous schools and colleges across the country.

This year’s gathering will feature:

Key Lectures: Exploring the life of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the epitome of mercy and a model for national and personal reform.

Special Prayers and Tahajjud: Spiritual sessions for attendees and the nation.

Goodwill Messages: From national and international dignitaries, including a special address by the World Leader of the Ahmadiyya Community, Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad (Allah be His Helper).

Government Participation: Invitations have been extended to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, and traditional rulers.

Addressing Nigeria’s current challenges, Barrister Alatoye commended the federal government’s rehabilitation of the Port Harcourt Refinery but expressed concern over the economic hardship faced by citizens. He criticized the political class for excessive opulence and called for urgent reforms, including reducing the cost of governance, enforcing minimum wage implementation, and prioritizing local production over luxury imports.

He urged leaders to emulate the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in their governance, promoting justice, humility, and compassion for the masses.

As the Jama’at celebrates 70 years of Jalsa Salana in Nigeria, the Amir reaffirmed the community’s commitment to fostering peace, education, and spiritual growth. He invited all Nigerians to join the gathering in Ilaro to share in the blessings of this historic event.

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