Abdulwasiu Akintunde

In celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), the Ogun State Area Unit (OGAU) marked the occasion with a grand event.

On Saturday, June 1st, 2024, the program took place at Hubert Ogunde Hall, Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Reflecting on the society’s history, it is noted that the MSSN was established on April 18th, 1954.

The society was founded by Tajudeen Adisa Aromoshodu, Simon Akin Luguda, and Abdurrahman Alade Sahid, who were students at the then Methodist Boys High School in Lagos.

The Society was officially launched on May 30th, 1954, at the Ansaruddeen Alakoro Mosque School Hall in Lagos with prayers, joy, and admonitions for the Muslim community.

The anniversary program began with opening prayers, the MSSN Anthem, and the new National Anthem.

Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON (Executive Governor of Ogun State), and Eng. Noimot Ayodele Salako (Executive Deputy Governor, Ogun State) were recognized as special guests of honor.

Other dignitaries included: the chairman of the occasion, Alhaji Thabit ‘Wale Sonaike (Deputy President, MUSWEN). The father of the day, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Ishola (Baba Adinni of Yoruba Land, Edo and Delta). The Royal father of the day, His Royal Majesty, Oba Prof. Sara Ademola Adisa Matemilola PhD CANTAB, FNSE, (the paramount ruler of the ancient Owu Kinkdom, Oke Ago Owu, Abeokuta). The keystone speaker, His Eminence Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, CFR, (formal governor, CBN). The distinguish guests of honor, His Excellency, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun, FCA, CON (Formal Governor, Ogun State) and Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salis (Ogun Central Senatorial District). The guest speakers, Prof. Taofeek Azeez (University of Ibadan) and Prof. Afeez Oladosu (University of Abuja). Also the BOT Chairman, Abdullah Jibril Oyekan.

Pictures of dignitaries at the event

A student recited the Holy Qur’an following the recognition of dignitaries.

Mallam Abdulfatai Adigun, the Amir/President of the Ogun Area Unit, delivered a welcome speech, thanking Almighty Allah and invoking blessings upon Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

Mallam Abdulfatai Adigun

He welcomed all delegates to the 70th anniversary of the MSSN and highlighted the Society’s role in producing future leaders, promoting academic excellence, and championing social justice.

Mallam Abdulfatai acknowledged notable individuals produced by the Society, such as Professor Oloyede, Dr. Dhikrullah Hassan, and Professor Abdulateef Sanni. He also praised the Federal Government for introducing the student loan initiative.

The MSSN B-Zone Amir/President, Alh. Moshood Kolawole Asqalani, urged the government to prioritize academic growth over frivolous expenditures and appreciated the founders, past leaders, volunteers, and supporters of the MSSN.

Lectures were delivered by Prof. Afeez Oladosu from the University of Abuja and Prof. Taofeek Azeez from the University of Ibadan on the theme “Consolidating on a Legacy of Excellence.”

Architect Tajudeen Ademoye presented the proposed secretariat of MSSN, Ogun State Area Unit, seeking support from dignitaries.

Arch. Tajudeen Ademoye

The MSSN at 70 Spelling Bee Competition was held on Friday, May 31st, 2024, at Nawair ud Deen High School, Isabo, Abeokuta, with results as follows:

Dawud Abdul Rahmon from Likeminds Model Academy, Obantoko, Abeokuta, under Odeda LG, who emerged as the overall winner received a cheque of 125,000 naira and an award of excellence presented by Salako.

Daud Abdul Rahmon receiving his prize

The 1st runner up, Adefala Faridah from Fortress Model College, Ijebu Ode LG, received a cheque of 100,000 naira and an award of excellence.

Adefala Faridah receiving her prize

Abdul Hakeem Mardiyyah from Community High School, Mowe Ibafo, Obafemi Owode LG, who emerged the 2nd runner up received a cheque of 75,000 naira and an award of excellence.

Abdul Hakeem Mardiyyah receiving her prize

Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salis added to the prize amounts, increasing the total for the overall winner to 200,000 naira, the 1st runner-up to 150,000 naira, and the 2nd runner-up to 100,000 naira.

Senator Shuaib Afolabi Salis

His Excellency, Noimot Ayodele Salako, emphasized the MSSN’s role in shaping young Muslims and urged the Society to adapt to contemporary challenges while staying true to its mission and values.

His Excellency, Eng. Noimot Ayodele Salako

Distinguished merit awards were presented to five leading figures: Prof. Is-haq Oloyede (JAMB Registrar) – Pioneer Amir/President MSSN B-Zone, Alhaji Waheed Kadiri (Former Rector, MAPOLY) – MSSN Ogun Area Unit Veteran, Late Dr. Abdulateef Adegbite (Posthumous Award) – Pioneer National President of MSSN, Alhaja Jagun Khadijat Taiwo – MSSN Ogun Area Unit Veteran, and Prince Muhammad Burihanudeen Adejare Ayodeji MBA, FCA, CPA – Living Pioneer President of MSSN Ogun Area Unit.

Israel Adeleke

The animal kingdom is brimming with fascinating creatures, many of which remain obscure to the general public.

Today, we embark on an alphabetical adventure to uncover ten astonishing animals whose names begin with the letter ‘A’ and are relatively unknown.

1. Aardwolf

Photo credit: Wikipedia

Resembling a small striped hyena, the aardwolf is actually an insectivore, feasting primarily on termites. Found in the grasslands of Eastern and Southern Africa, this shy creature is nocturnal and lives in burrows.

2. Axolotl

Photo credit: Britannica

Often called the “Mexican Walking Fish,” the axolotl is not a fish but an amphibian. This unique creature has the extraordinary ability to regenerate limbs and is found exclusively in the lake complex of Xochimilco near Mexico City.

3. Aye-Aye

Photo credit: Wikipedia

A lemur native to Madagascar, the aye-aye is often considered an omen of bad luck by locals. With its large eyes, slender fingers, and nocturnal habits, it is one of the most unusual primates in the world.

4. Agouti

Photo credit: National Zoo

Agoutis are rodent species found in Central and South America. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem by dispersing seeds and have a distinctive method of sitting on their haunches to eat.

5. Armadillo Girdled Lizard

Photo credit: Reddit

This reptile from South Africa has a body that resembles an armadillo’s banded armor. When threatened, it rolls into a ball, protecting its soft underbelly.

6. Aldabra Giant Tortoise

Photo credit: PBS

One of the largest tortoises in the world, this gentle giant is native to the Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles. They can live for over a century, making them one of the longest-living animals.

7. Amazon River Dolphin

Photo credit: WWF

Also known as the pink dolphin due to its unique coloration, this freshwater dolphin inhabits the Amazon River. It is the largest species of river dolphin and has a very flexible neck.

8. African Clawed Frog

Photo credit: Colorado Wildlife – Substack

A species of aquatic frog native to sub-Saharan Africa, it is known for its claw-like structures on its hind feet. Interestingly, it was the first vertebrate to be cloned in the 1960s.

9. Alpine Ibex

Photo credit: Geeky Planet

Majestic mountain goats with impressive curved horns, Alpine ibexes are found in the European Alps. They are known for their incredible climbing abilities, often seen scaling near-vertical cliffs.

10. Amur Leopard

Photo credit: CGTN

The Amur leopard is one of the world’s most endangered big cats, with an estimated 60 individuals left in the wild. Native to the Russian Far East, it is adapted to cold, snowy environments and has a beautiful spotted coat.

These ten animals are just a glimpse into the vast diversity of life that starts with ‘A’.

Each plays a vital role in their respective ecosystems and showcases the incredible variety of adaptations and behaviors found in the animal kingdom.

FREEDOM TIMES says “Let’s cherish and protect these lesser-known A-listers of nature.”

Watch out for the B’s Animal Kingdom

Israel Adeleke

In a world where digital devices constantly bombard us with notifications, emails, and messages, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

The digital age has brought us closer together than ever before, yet it has also increased our levels of stress and distraction.

This is where the ancient practice of MINDFULNESS comes in, offering a haven of tranquility in the midst of our fast-paced lives.

So the question now is, What is Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is the simple act of paying full attention to the present moment without judgment.

It’s about noticing the sensations in your body, the thoughts in your mind, and the emotions that flow through you.

By practicing mindfulness, we can learn to respond to life’s challenges with clarity and calmness, rather than reacting impulsively.

Oxford dictionary defines it as ​a mental state achieved by concentrating on the present moment, while calmly accepting the feelings and thoughts that come to you, used as a technique to help you relax.

What Are Some Benefits of Mindfulness

Research has shown that mindfulness can have profound benefits on both mental and physical health.

It can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve concentration, and even lower blood pressure.

In the workplace, mindfulness has been linked to increased productivity and creativity, as employees become more focused and less stressed.

Mindfulness, the practice of maintaining a non-judgmental state of heightened or complete awareness of one’s thoughts, emotions, or experiences on a moment-to-moment basis, offers several benefits in the digital age:

Reduced Stress: Mindfulness helps lower stress levels by promoting a sense of calm and centeredness, which is especially valuable in our fast-paced, always-connected digital world.

Improved Focus and Productivity: By training the mind to focus on the present moment, mindfulness can enhance concentration and productivity, counteracting the distractions of digital multitasking.

Enhanced Well-being Regular: mindfulness practice is linked to increased overall well-being, providing a counterbalance to the often overwhelming nature of digital information overload.

Greater Self-Awareness: Mindfulness encourages self-awareness, which can lead to better self-regulation in the use of digital media and a more intentional approach to digital consumption.

Insight into Digital Habits: Mindfulness can foster enhanced insight into the adverse impacts of our behavior with respect to digital media, helping us recognize and modify potentially harmful patterns.

Mindfulness in Everyday Life

Incorporating mindfulness into your daily routine doesn’t require hours of meditation.

It can be as simple as taking a few deep breaths before starting your car, savoring the taste of your morning coffee, or listening attentively to a friend without planning your response.

These small moments of awareness can add up to a more mindful and fulfilling life.

Mindfulness and Technology

Ironically, technology itself can be a tool for promoting mindfulness. There are numerous apps designed to guide users through meditation exercises or remind them to take mindful breaks throughout the day.

However, it’s important to use these tools wisely and not let them become another source of distraction.

In conclusion, as we navigate the complexities of the digital age, mindfulness offers a way to stay grounded and centered.

By making a conscious effort to be present, we can enjoy the benefits of technology without becoming enslaved by it.

In the end, mindfulness isn’t about escaping from the world; it’s about engaging with it more fully, one moment at a time.