Authentic Omoluabi: Aregbesola Hails NASFAT President AbdulRauf
Afenifere Renewal Group coordinator Bayo Aregbesola hails the Islamic leader as an “authentic Omoluabi”, citing his integrity, humanitarian service and bridge-building across communities
By Abdullahi Yusuf
The President of the Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT), Alhaji Ayodeji AbdulRauf, has been recognised for what the Afenifere Renewal Group (ARG) described as a distinctive blend of Islamic leadership, civic responsibility, humanitarian service and commitment to Yoruba socio-political advancement.
The commendation was made by Bayo Aregbesola, Coordinator of the Afenifere Renewal Group, Canada, who described AbdulRauf as an “authentic Omoluabi” whose public conduct, according to him, has been defined by integrity, humility and commitment to principle.
Aregbesola said the NASFAT president had distinguished himself by maintaining his convictions while engaging constructively with people across religious, civic and cultural communities.
He said AbdulRauf’s influence was rooted not merely in the position he occupies but in the trust he has built through what he described as transparent leadership, compassion and a willingness to engage people who hold different views.
According to Aregbesola, AbdulRauf has demonstrated an ability to combine moral courage with respect for others, choosing dialogue over division and building bridges across communities.
He said such leadership was increasingly important in a society where religious, political and cultural differences can easily become sources of tension.
Aregbesola also pointed to AbdulRauf’s work as president of NASFAT, particularly the organisation’s welfare initiatives, as evidence of his belief that religious commitment should translate into practical service to society.
Among the initiatives highlighted was NASFAT’s “Feed a Mouth” Daily Iftar Programme, which provides food support to vulnerable members of society.
He said AbdulRauf’s involvement in such initiatives reflected a broader understanding of leadership in which faith is expressed through service, sacrifice and concern for the welfare of others.
The commendation also extended beyond AbdulRauf’s religious responsibilities.
Aregbesola said his contribution to Yoruba socio-political advancement and civil rights advocacy had strengthened his standing among stakeholders outside the Muslim community.
He described this combination of religious conviction and civic engagement as one of the qualities that set AbdulRauf apart, arguing that public leadership should not be confined to the boundaries of religious or institutional office.
The ARG coordinator said AbdulRauf had shown that it was possible to remain firmly rooted in one’s identity while maintaining respect and constructive relationships with people of different backgrounds.
He also praised the NASFAT president’s approach to criticism, saying his willingness to engage critics respectfully rather than resorting to confrontation had contributed to his growing influence.
According to him, AbdulRauf’s leadership style demonstrates that lasting influence is built more on trust, consistency and character than on popularity.
The recognition comes as AbdulRauf continues to lead NASFAT, one of Nigeria’s prominent Muslim organisations, with the society involved in social welfare, humanitarian and community development activities.
For Aregbesola, the significance of AbdulRauf’s leadership lies in the intersection of these responsibilities — religious service, community development, civic engagement and commitment to the wider society.
He said the NASFAT president’s record offered an example of leadership that could inspire younger generations to combine personal values with public responsibility.
The commendation was contained in a statement issued by NASFAT’s National Public Relations Secretary, Alhaji Shamsideen Owolabi Oseni, dated August 12, 2026.
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