Invest In Building of Mosque For Spiritual Fabrics - Alhaji Okutepa To Muslims

Speech by Alhaji Isiaka Suleiman Okutepa on the Commissioning of a Mosque at Egwubi, Ejule-Alla Ward, Ofu Local Government Area, Kogi State

All Protocols Observed,

The First Daughter of the Federal Republic, Chief Dr. Mujidat Folashade Tinubu-Ojo,

The Representative of the Deputy Governor of Kogi State,

Hon Muhammed Alfa Nasiru

His Royal Majesty, the Ejeh Ofu, HRH, Akwu Obaje

Distinguished Sheikhs and Imams,

Honored Traditional Heads and Community Leaders,

Club Heads, Esteemed Guests, and My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Islam,

Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.

It is with profound gratitude to Allah (SWT) that we gather here today for the commissioning of this mosque in Egwubi, Ejule-Alla Ward. This event is not only a landmark occasion for our community but also a testament to our collective commitment to the service of Allah, our Creator, and to the upliftment of our community.

I am deeply honored to stand before this august gathering and to see the convergence of our leaders, traditional rulers, spiritual guides, and the faithful. Your presence, particularly that of the First Daughter of the Federal Republic and the representative of the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, underscores the importance of this day and the unity we are fostering as a people.

Gratitude to Allah and the Community

First and foremost, we give thanks to Allah (SWT), the Most Gracious and the Most Merciful, for granting us the opportunity to complete this noble project. It is He who inspires good deeds and rewards them abundantly. This mosque stands today as a symbol of His grace and our determination.

I must also extend my heartfelt appreciation to every individual and group who contributed in cash, kind, or prayer toward the successful construction of this house of worship. Your sacrifices, no matter how small, will not go unnoticed by Allah. May He reward you abundantly and grant you barakah in your endeavors.

The Significance of Building a Place of Worship

Brothers and sisters, the construction of a mosque is one of the noblest acts in Islam. Allah (SWT) says in the Qur'an: 

 "The mosques of Allah shall be maintained only by those who believe in Allah and the Last Day, perform As-Salah (prayer), give Zakah, and fear none but Allah. It is they who are expected to be on true guidance." (Surah At-Tawbah 9:18)

A mosque is not merely a building; it is a sanctuary for the faithful, a place where hearts connect with Allah, and a center for community life. It is where we stand shoulder to shoulder in prayer, forgetting our differences and uniting as one Ummah under the banner of Islam.

But beyond its spiritual role, the mosque is also a hub for learning, a platform for community service, and a beacon of hope. It fosters moral development, promotes peaceful coexistence, and serves as a rallying point for nation-building.

The Role of Mosques in Nation-Building

Ladies and gentlemen, as we face the challenges of our time—be it moral decadence, corruption, or disunity—the importance of mosques in shaping a better society cannot be overstated. The teachings of Islam, as propagated in mosques, emphasize justice, equity, compassion, and love for one’s neighbor. These values are the bedrock of a peaceful and progressive nation.

In Nigeria, a country rich in diversity, mosques serve as centers for interfaith dialogue and understanding. They teach us to respect other religions and cultures while holding firmly to our faith. This is the essence of peaceful coexistence.

When we invest in building mosques, we are investing in the moral and spiritual fabric of our society. We are creating environments where individuals can grow in righteousness and contribute positively to their families, communities, and the nation at large.

Encouragement to Build More Places of Worship

While today’s event is a moment of joy and celebration, it is also a call to action. I urge all individuals, groups, and communities to prioritize the construction and maintenance of places of worship. Whether it is a mosque, a church, or any other sanctuary, such efforts contribute to the moral upliftment of society.

It is said in a hadith:

'Whoever builds a mosque for Allah, Allah will build for him a house in Paradise.” (Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim)

This promise should inspire us to do more, not only for our eternal reward but also for the legacy we leave behind in this world.

Unity and Peaceful Coexistence

Distinguished guests, the commissioning of this mosque in Egwubi is a reminder of what we can achieve when we work together. It is a testament to the power of unity and shared purpose.

In our beloved Kogi State and Nigeria at large, unity remains our greatest strength. Despite our ethnic, religious, and cultural differences, we are one people bound by our shared humanity. Let us continue to foster peace and understanding among ourselves.

Let this mosque serve as a symbol of that unity. Let it be a place where people come not only to worship but also to discuss, to learn, and to resolve differences. Let it stand as a reminder that we are stronger together.

Appreciation to Dignitaries

I must take a moment to thank the First Daughter of the Federal Republic for gracing this occasion. Your presence is a source of encouragement and a reflection of your commitment to community development and nation-building.

To the representative of the Deputy Governor of Kogi State, we are grateful for your unwavering support and the state government’s dedication to fostering development and harmony in our communities.

To His Royal Majesty, the Ejeh Ofu, and our traditional leaders, your guidance and wisdom are invaluable. You remain the custodians of our heritage and pillars of our community.

To our sheikhs, imams, and all spiritual leaders present, we appreciate your relentless efforts in guiding us on the path of righteousness.

And to every other dignitary, community leader, and faithful here today, I say a big thank you for your presence and support.

Conclusion

As we commission this mosque, let us remember that it is not merely the end of a project but the beginning of a new chapter for Egwubi and Ejule-Alla Ward. Let this mosque inspire us to greater acts of devotion, service, and unity. Let it remind us that our ultimate goal is to seek Allah’s pleasure and to leave the world better than we found it.

May Allah bless this mosque and make it a source of guidance and blessings for generations to come. May He unite our hearts, strengthen our faith, and grant us the wisdom and courage to build a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

Once again, I thank you all for your presence and contributions. May Allah reward you abundantly.

Wassalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.