Bismillah al-Rahman al-Raheem
May the peace of Allah be upon our Noble Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
Esteemed members of our cherished community, *Ayegunle Gbede*,
I am deeply moved and profoundly honored to accept the privilege of becoming the Chief Imam of our community, Ayegunle Gbede. I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to each one of you for entrusting me with this sacred responsibility.
Unity is the cornerstone of any thriving community. My tenure as Chief Imam will be marked by an unwavering commitment to fostering unity among us. Together, we are stronger. Regardless of our diverse backgrounds and religious differences, we must stand as one, supporting and uplifting each other, working hand in hand to build a stronger and more harmonious community.
Education is the beacon that lights the path towards progress. It is my firm belief that education is the foundation upon which we can build a brighter future. During my tenure, I will tirelessly advocate for improved access to quality education both Islamic and secular education for our children, creating opportunities for lifelong learning for all.
Development is a continuous journey that we must embark on together. Our community deserves to prosper in all aspects of life. As Chief Imam, I pledge to be at the forefront of initiatives that promote community development, whether it’s in terms of infrastructure, healthcare, economic empowerment, or any other sphere that contributes to our well-being and progress.
Lastly, I want to underscore the vital role that women play in our community. Women are not just contributors but the life force of our families and community. My commitment is unwavering in championing the rights and empowerment of women. We will work tirelessly to ensure that women in our community are given equal opportunities and respect.
In conclusion, I want to assure you that I will dedicate every ounce of my energy and passion to serving the Muslim community in particular and the Ayegunle Gbede in general with the utmost integrity, compassion, and dedication. I see our community as a shining example of unity, a hub of education, a cradle of development, and a place where women are celebrated and empowered.
I am deeply grateful for your trust and support. Let us come together as one, to shape a brighter future for our community.
Thank you all for the kind words, blessings, and congratulatory messages that I have received so far. They have touched my heart profoundly.
Ma’ Salam.
*Khalifah Abdulrasheed Saidu Arekemase*
_Chief Imam of Ayegunle Gbede_
5th November, 2023
