The over 40 years dream and aspirations of the founding fathers of Alaagba Village in Ado-Odo Otta area of Ogun State to have a befitting mosque in their community has practically come to reality.
The Alaagba Village is a quiet community that is beginning to witness steady growth as structures (buildings) are getting to sprawl.
Findings by Muslim News revealed that for years, the village has not had a major mosque, as Muslim residents observe the five daily prayers in their various homes and make shift mosques, even as they observe Salatu Jumu’ah in nearby towns and villages.
However, excitement enveloped the entire community as residents heard the unprecedented Call to Prayer (Adhan) on Friday, March 7, 2025 for the maiden Juma’h Prayer.
The Mosque, which is still at the foundation stage, is being championed by The Muslim Congress (TMC), a leading Islamic organisation in Nigeria.
The Waali of TMC Lagos, Mallam Tajudeen Olusesi said the journey started with the relationship fostered by Alaagba Village and the TMC, when the Da’wah (Islamic propagation) group of the organisation took preachings to the village more than 20 years ago.
Impressed by the excellent delivery of Da’wah message and Islamic teachings then, the residents expressed wishes for the Islamic propagation to continue and therefore, formally invited the leadership of TMC to draw out plan on how the mission could be achieved.
“After we had an agreement, acres of land was bought, and the first assignment for the leadership was to establish a mosque, which will be a place where people would be able to worship and receive guidance,” the Waali said.
He said the plan also aligns with the wishes of the founding fathers of the village to have a base where the message of Islam can be preached and spread.
“Apart from having a piece of land for the Masjid, we also have individuals, both TMC members and non-members, who bought land very close to the proposed Mosque land, so they could be closer to the Masjid and have the opportunity of receiving quality lectures,” Mallam Olusesi added.
First Jumu’ah Prayer
The first Juma’h Prayer was attended by members of the community, including the Baale of Alaagba Village, Alhaji Jubril Atanda.
Mosque, place to foster brotherhood, unity: Imam
In the khutbah, the guest Imam, Ustadh Ridhwan Abdulkareem stressed the role of the Mosque in a Muslim community as a place to foster brotherhood, unity, cohesion, and love among Muslims.
“The first task executed by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) upon arrival at Madinah was to establish a mosque. The Mosque became a symbol for the worship of Allah.
“The Mosque plays important roles in human society, especially within the Muslim community. The Mosque serves as a platform to preach the Islamic message and enlighten the Muslims. It is also a place where we can foster unity, cohesion and brotherhood among Muslims.
“From the Mosque, the less privileged amongst Muslims are discovered, and support offered. These are part of the reasons for the establishment of the Mosque in Islam,” he noted.
It’s historic moment, says Baale
The Baale of Alaagba, Alhaji Jubril Atanda expressed joy as he witnessed the historic moment.
“It has been almost 40 years now that we have been willing to have a befitting mosque constructed in our village. I’m very excited today”.
“I can see the commitment, and that is all we need. Anyone who wants to execute a project without a commitment cannot succeed. I hope and pray that we will complete the Mosque very soon”, Baale said.
Project reflects vision of TMC
Meanwhile, the Waali of TMC Lagos who disclosed that the construction project will cost one hundred and five million Naira (#105,000,000) only, said the project reflects the vision of The Muslim Congress – to be the foremost organisation guiding, influencing and setting agenda for societal reformation in line with the Qur’an and Sunnah.
“This is the belief of the founders of TMC. There is no way you will be able to influence, set agenda, and guide people if you do not have a base (the Mosque). That is why we got some plots of land in this area. Our first assignment is to establish a mosque.”
“The mosque is sitting on a full plot of land. It is part of our plan to have the male corridor and the female corridor, ablution centres, as well toilets for both males and females. It’ll also have Madrasah and Tahfiz school,” the Waali stated.
Apparently, there is still much more to be done after the completion of the foundation stage. The Waali said there are three phases in the ongoing construction, but they are still in the first phase.
He called on Muslims in Nigeria and around the world to support the Mosque project in Alaagba Village.
Acct Name: THE MUSLIM CONGRESS LAGOS
Acct No. 0500083573
Bank Name: STERLING BANK
“We have committed funds into the project. We believe that with huge support of Muslim brothers and sisters, we should be able to actualise the full construction before the next Ramadan (2026).
The ongoing construction excites the Muslim community in Alaagba Village, and this was well reflected in the large turnout of villagers for the Juma’h Prayer.
