Nigeria’s former High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Amb. Sarafadeen Tunji Ishola has emphasised the importance of Muslims actively participating in governance and contributing to nation-building.

Tunji-Ishola, while hosting members of the Ogun State chapter of The Muslim Congress in Abeokuta, commended the organisation for its contributions to Nigeria’s spiritual, social, and economic development.

Amb. Tunji-Ishola will be chairing the 18th edition of the Annual Independence Lecture organised by the Ogun State chapter of The Muslim Congress (TMC), which will be held on Saturday, 4th October 2025, at the Ake Palace Pavilion in Abeokuta, the State Capital.

The former Minister of Mines and Steel recalled Prophet Muhammad’s (SAW) transformative approach to governance and stated that Muslim involvement in politics is no longer optional.

Ambassador Ishola expressed his willingness to partner with TMC to achieve the best for Ogun State and Nigeria.

Earlier, the Waali of TMC’s Ogun State Chapter, Dr. Abdulrazaq Ogunmoye, stated that TMC has been using the independent lecture for nearly two decades to highlight issues of national importance, set the agenda for all sectors of society, and develop strategies to address the various challenges facing the country.

Dr. Ogunmoye was represented by the former Waali of TMC in the state, Dr. Taofeek Kasali, who led the delegation. In his remarks, he commended Ambassador Ishola’s distinguished background and dedication to public service, which suited him well to chair the significant occasion.

Dr. Kasali also informed the Ambassador that TMC has secured the commitment of the Founder and Director of Muslim Rights Concerns (MURIC), Professor Isaq Akintola, and other notable personalities such as the former Ogun Deputy Governor, Senator Adegbenga Sefiu Kaka; Director of Al-Qurraa Schools in Ibadan, Sheikh Abdul Hafeez Ariremako; Secretary General of the Ogun State Muslim Council (OMC), Alhaji Kamaldeen Akintude; Hon. Lukmon Olajide Atobatele (OGHA); esteemed Royal and Spiritual Fathers; captains of industry; academia; and eminent Muslim personalities both within and beyond the state.