The Olu of Ilaro, Oba Kehinde Gbadewole Olugbenle, has praised the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Nigeria for its sustained investment in education, describing its initiatives as a significant contribution to human capital development and national progress.
The monarch made the remarks while speaking at the 60th Annual UK Islamic Conference of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association, held at Hadeeqatul Mahdi, Alton, Hampshire, England. He attended the event alongside a delegation of traditional chiefs and other Nigerians from Ilaro, Ogun State.
Addressing participants during the afternoon session of the conference on Saturday as one of the guest speakers, Oba Olugbenle highlighted the community’s educational projects in Nigeria, noting that they have created opportunities for thousands of young people to acquire quality education and technical skills.
He particularly commended the establishment of the first Ahmadiyya University in the world, located in Ikirun, Osun State, describing it as a landmark achievement in higher education. He also praised the Masroor International Technical College in Ilaro, Ogun State, saying the institution has strengthened technical and vocational education by equipping young Nigerians with practical skills for employment and entrepreneurship.
According to the monarch, the establishment of the two institutions demonstrates the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community’s long-term commitment to promoting education, empowering young people and supporting Nigeria’s socio-economic development through investment in human capital.
Oba Olugbenle said education remains one of the most effective tools for national transformation, urging individuals, corporate organisations and philanthropic bodies to complement government efforts by investing in educational infrastructure and skills development.
He noted that partnerships between faith-based organisations, traditional institutions and government would further improve access to quality education and contribute to sustainable national development.
The 60th Annual UK Islamic Conference attracted participants from across the United Kingdom and other countries, providing a platform for discussions on faith, education, peace, community development and global humanitarian initiatives. The event also featured lectures, interactive sessions and addresses by religious leaders, scholars and distinguished guests from different parts of the world.
