The Emir of Kano, His Royal Highness Dr. Muhammad Lamido Sanusi II, has lauded the United Kingdom for creating an atmosphere of tolerance, maturity, and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths.
Speaking in London at the fundraising ceremony for the Old Kent Road Mosque and Islamic Cultural Center, hosted by the Muslim Association of Nigeria UK (MAN UK), Sanusi described the UK as a society where diversity thrives and religious freedom is embraced.
“The British Government and its people have shown us what Islam truly represents—a faith rooted in peace, tolerance, respect, and harmonious living, regardless of race or religion,” the Emir stated.
He emphasized that mosques must serve a greater purpose beyond worship. According to him, they are meant to be centers of learning, morality, and social values that shape stronger societies. Drawing from history, Sanusi reminded the audience that Prophet Muhammad (SAW) once welcomed Christians into the mosque, symbolizing tolerance and unity.
READ MORE: Saudi Aramco Launches Two-Part Islamic Bond Amid Weak Oil Prices
Highlighting the importance of the Old Kent Road Mosque redevelopment, he noted that the facility will not only function as a place of prayer but also as a hub for education, entrepreneurship, cultural exchange, and sustainability through renewable energy.
“This project stands as a beacon of hope for Muslims and humanity at large. It embodies the Prophet’s vision of mosques being central to communities, bringing together people of all backgrounds,” Sanusi said.
Lagos Deputy Governor Commends MAN UK
The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, who was the Special Guest of Honor, praised MAN UK for championing the project.
Dr. Hamzat recalled that for over three decades, the Old Kent Road Mosque has been more than just a prayer ground for Nigerian Muslims and the wider London community. It has served as a symbol of unity, social interaction, and community cohesion.
“This mosque has for thirty years embodied the spirit of Islam—fostering brotherhood, nurturing faith, and serving humanity,” he noted.
He described the ongoing reconstruction into a modern six-storey facility as a visionary move, providing space for spiritual growth, community development, and expanded services for a growing congregation.
Scholars and Leaders Endorse the Vision
In his goodwill message, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, CON, CFR, Registrar of Nigeria’s Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), represented by Dr. Hassan Oloyede, congratulated MAN UK for envisioning the redevelopment of the mosque.
He stressed that mosques must reclaim their historic role as educational centers by introducing structured programs—Qur’anic studies, Arabic language classes, Islamic jurisprudence study circles, family counseling, and youth engagement initiatives.
According to him, such efforts will ensure that the mosque remains the primary source of authentic religious knowledge, safeguarding the community from misinformation.
MAN UK’s Vision for the Future
In his welcome remarks, Alhaji Abdul Jeleel Oladejo, President of MAN UK, described the project as a legacy of transformation. He explained that the six-storey facility would serve as a multipurpose Islamic and cultural center, catering to worship, education, youth empowerment, and social development.
“This mosque is about building a future where children flourish, youth find purpose, elders are honored, and the entire community is uplifted spiritually and socially,” he said.
Other distinguished speakers included Prof. Shaykh Abdal Hakim Murad, Dean of Cambridge Muslim College; Councilor Yasmine Dar, former Lord Mayor of Manchester; Dr. Muhammad Wajid Akhter, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Britain; Dr. Taofeeq Abdul Salam, Shaykh Yusuf Kamara, and Alhaja Ramatalahi Faruq Onikijipa. All pledged their support towards the completion of the project before Ramadan 2026.
The event reaffirmed the Old Kent Road Mosque’s place as not only a spiritual landmark but also a symbol of hope, unity, and progress for the Muslim community in London and beyond.
