* Tajudeen Olusesi’s achievement adds to his growing academic and professional credentials
The Waali (Coordinator) of The Muslim Congress (TMC), Lagos State Chapter, Mal Tajudeen Olusesi has graduated with a Distinction from the Executive Master of Non-Interest Finance (EMNIF) programme of the University of Lagos Business School (ULBS).
He was among the graduates who received their certificates during the 56th Convocation Ceremony of the University of Lagos, held on Thursday, January 22, marking another milestone in his academic and leadership journey.
Muslim News gathered that Mal. Olusesi had earlier obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from the University of Lagos and a Master’s degree in Risk Management and Insurance from the same institution, before returning to his alma mater for the Executive Master of Non-Interest Finance programme to further strengthen his expertise in the field.
Mal. Olusesi, who currently serves as Head of Business Development at Hilal Takaful Insurance, was accompanied to the ceremony by family members, friends, colleagues, and members of The Muslim Congress, who turned out in numbers to celebrate his academic achievement and professional excellence.
Speaking with our Correspondent shortly after the convocation, Waali TMC Lagos expressed profound gratitude to Allah for the successful completion of the programme, describing the achievement as the fulfilment of long-cherished dream.
According to him, his decision to enrol for the EMNIF programme was driven by the knowledge-based nature of his profession (Takaful Insurance), the need to deepen his understanding of non-interest (Islamic) finance, and the opportunity provided by the Zakat and Sadaqat Foundation (ZSF) Islamic Finance Capacity Enhancement Scholarship, following his nomination by Muslim leaders in his immediate community under the headship of Alhaji Tunde Olakunle.
He described the academic experience at the University of Lagos Business School as “highly commendable,” citing the blend of online lectures, intensive physical classes, scholarly engagement with industry experts, and rigorous assessments.
He noted that the programme significantly sharpened his presentation, analytical and research skills, building on the strong foundation laid by his previous academic and professional certifications.
These include membership of Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN), Membership of Chartered Institute of Bankers (CIBN), fellowship of the Institute of Islamic Finance Professionals (IIFP), and fellowship of the African Association of Entrepreneurs (AAEN)
On how he achieved a distinction in what he described as a rigorous executive programme, the TMC Waali attributed his success to clear vision, determination, and disciplined preparation, and above all, trust in Allah.
He explained that his over 25 years of involvement in Islamic activism and 15 years of practical exposure to Islamic finance ranging from Islamic microfinance bank to Zakat and Sadaqat administration and Takaful Insurance, gave him a solid foundation, which he complemented with focused attention on assignments, class presentations, and examinations.
Balancing his demanding leadership role as Waali of TMC Lagos with academic responsibilities was not without challenges, he admitted. However, he credited the support of his cabinet members and executive team for making it possible, describing the experience as a manifestation of Allah’s promise to assist those who strive in His cause.
Highlighting the immediate benefits of the EMNIF programme to his leadership role, he identified a broader understanding of the Halal economy, Islamic management principles, and corporate governance as key takeaways that would positively impact his organisational leadership.
He further emphasised the importance of non-interest finance to the economic empowerment of Muslims and non-Muslims in Nigeria, noting that Nigeria’s Halal economy, valued at over $107 billion in 2022, is among the fastest growing globally, with projections estimating it could reach $180 billion by 2027.
Renowned for his passion for continuous learning, the TMC Coordinator in Lagos explained that his drive is rooted in a love for knowledge, leadership demands, and professional development, drawing inspiration from the Prophetic teaching that wisdom is the lost property of the believer.
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