Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, has described the Chief Imam of Ekiti State and President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas in Yorubaland, Edo and Delta, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello, as a rare gift to the Muslim community, celebrating his 40 years of leadership in Islamic service.
Speaking at the grand finale of the anniversary in Ado-Ekiti, Salako-Oyedele said Sheikh Kewulere’s steady rise through religious ranks and his unwavering service to the Muslim faithful across the South West and beyond reflect dedication, discipline and spiritual depth.
“Your 40 years of committed service as Chief Imam and your leadership across the entire Yorubaland, including Edo and Delta, is nothing short of remarkable. You have remained a unifying voice and a symbol of religious guidance,” she said.
The event, which attracted religious leaders, government functionaries and traditional rulers, witnessed prayers, tributes and cultural displays in honour of Sheikh Kewulere’s contributions to Islam and society.
Among the dignitaries present were the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB), Prof. Ishaq Oloyede; President of Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN), Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo; and the Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh AbdulGaniyu Agbotomokekere.
Prayers were also offered for President Bola Tinubu, who gifted a 2025 SUV to Sheikh Kewulere in recognition of his religious leadership.
In his remarks, the JAMB Registrar noted that Sheikh Kewulere’s influence transcends religious lines, stressing that his leadership has continued to promote peace and understanding among diverse faiths.
Sheikh Kewulere, in his response, expressed gratitude to God and to all those who honoured him, reaffirming his commitment to the service of Islam and humanity.
The celebration climaxed with goodwill messages from Christian and traditional leaders who praised the cleric’s inclusive and peaceful disposition.
