The immediate past Chief Imam of the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Prof. Oloyede AbdulRahmon, has advised the Federal Government to ensure Nigerians feel the positive impact of its policies.

Mr 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 titled,“Frontier of Civilization: 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 wasn’t enough, but translating them into people’s wellbeing must be core at his mind.

He stated, “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.”

Mr AbdulRahmon, who said the last five years before his retirement were challenging, appreciated God for the grace to serve and be celebrated by the people.

He appreciated everyone who stood as his pillars of support and motivation throughout his service years.

In his remarks, the occasion’s chairman, Senator Sarafadeen Alli, representing the All Progressives Congress Oyo South Senatorial District, called on God-fearing Nigerians to venture into politics to turn things around.

Mr Alli said not joining politics and complaining might not change things as expected.

He, however, said that God-fearing politicians would initially be faced with difficulties and also encounter some form of suffering in pursuit of their dream to serve the people.

Mr Alli said that their suffering and striving to turn things around would eventually pay off with determination and consistency.

He described Mr AbdulRahmon as a role model and shining example, adding that he had hardly made any decision without seeking the advice of the celebrant.

The senator called on the University of Ibadan Muslim Community to sustain and build on the legacy left behind by the celebrant.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, who described the retired chief imam as a scholar and educator, praised him for his contributions to Islam and humanity.

The Olubadan was represented by the President, Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Sulaiman Ajewole.

The occasion’s Guest Lecturer, Dr Saheed Timehin, of the Department of Foreign Languages, Lagos State University, challenged leaders to always inspire others and not be obstacles to others’ progress.

Mr Timehin, while delivering his lecture, titled, “Legacy of Etched in Letters: Reflections on Being a Preacher-Teacher and Mentor,” described Mr AbdulRahmon as an embodiment of what leadership entails.

According to him, the islamic cleric stands as one deserving to be emulated.

Also, the President of the University of Ibadan Muslim Community, Prof. Musiliu Onilude, said the Muslim community in the institution had gone a long way and would continue to move ahead.

Mr Onilude, who congratulated the retired cleric, said the Muslim community would continue to build on his legacy.

In attendance at the occasion were a former Executive Secretary, Muslim Ummah of South-West Nigeria (MUSWEN), Prof. Dawud Niobi and Iya Sunnah of Akureland, Dr Munirat Ogunlayi.

The Seriki Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo and Delta stares, Rasheed Omookuorun, was also in attendance, among others. 

(NAN)