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THE immediate past Chief Imam of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Mufutau Oloyede AbdulRahmon, has advised the Federal Government to ensure that Nigerians truly feel the positive impact of its policies. AbdulRahmon gave the advice in Ibadan on Sunday during a book launch organised by the University of Ibadan Muslim Community in honour of his retirement and 70th birthday. The book is entitled ‘Frontier of Civilisation: The Trajectory of Arabic and Islamic Studies in Yorubaland’. The retired Chief Imam, who commended President Bola Tinubu for being a listening leader, said reeling out statistics was not enough, stressing that translating them into tangible improvements in people’s well-being should be the government’s priority. “Leaders must ensure that the policies, packages and executions have positive effects on Nigerians; that is when people will know that they are doing something. “Reeling out statistics are just mere numbers, but we thank them for the little they are doing and they should continue to do more so that Nigerians can feel the positive impact,” he said. AbdulRahmon, who noted that the last five years before his retirement were challenging, expressed gratitude to God for the grace to serve and to be celebrated. He appreciated everyone who stood by him as pillars of support and motivation throughout his service years. In his remarks, the chairman of the occasion, Senator Sarafadeen Alli, representing Oyo South Senatorial District, called on God-fearing Nigerians to venture into politics in order to bring meaningful change. Alli noted that merely staying outside politics and complaining would not yield results. He added that God-fearing politicians might initially face difficulties and suffering in pursuit of their mission but would ultimately be rewarded for their perseverance and consistency. Describing AbdulRahmon as a role model and shining example, the senator said he seldom made major decisions without seeking the celebrant’s counsel. He also urged the University of Ibadan Muslim Community to sustain and build on the legacy of the retired Chief Imam. The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, described AbdulRahmon as a scholar and educator who made significant contributions to Islam and humanity. The monarch was represented by the President of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Alhaji Sulaiman Ajewole. The guest lecturer, Dr Saheed Timehin of the Department of Foreign Languages, Lagos State University, challenged leaders to inspire others and not become obstacles to their progress. Delivering his lecture titled ‘Legacy Etched in Letters: Reflections on Being a Preacher-Teacher and Mentor’, Timehin described AbdulRahmon as an embodiment of true leadership and a figure worthy of emulation. Meanwhile, the President of the University of Ibadan Muslim Community, Prof. Musiliu Onilude, said the Muslim community in the institution had come a long way and would continue to advance. He congratulated the retired cleric and pledged that the community would continue to build on his legacy. Among dignitaries present were Prof. Dawud Noibi, former Executive Secretary of the Muslim Ummah of South-West Nigeria (MUSWEN); the Iya Sunnah of Akureland, Dr Munirat Ogunlayi; and the Seriki Musulumi of Yorubaland, Alhaji Rasheed Omookuorun.
