Arabian College celebrates valedictory, honours Iya Adinni of Yorubaland at 90

PARENTS and guardians have been encouraged not to relent in their efforts to mentor children and youths to become worthy ambassadors of Islam.

The proprietor of Arabian College, Omi-Adio, Ibadan, Dr Musa Alongbija, gave the advice during the school’s 2024/2025 end-of-session party, valedictory service and celebration of the 90th birthday of the school matron, Alhaja Sekinat Adekola, who is also the Iya Adinni of Yorubaland.

Dr Alongbija emphasised the importance of guidance, mentorship and counselling in protecting young minds from the clutches of cultism and immorality.

“I implore parents to inform us whenever our students gain admission into any higher institution of learning; we have connections with lecturers and school authorities who will guide them against straying from the right path,” Dr Alongbija said.

While extolling the virtues of Alhaja Adekola as a quintessential leader committed to human and societal development, Dr Alongbija described her as a pathfinder for all model Islamic schools, praying to Allah to grant her long life and good health.

He further advised the graduating students to remain focused and uphold the moral values instilled in them, so they may excel in their chosen careers.

Dr Alongbija also announced full scholarships for the best students in all classes. Additionally, five female students who performed excellently in the Qur’an competition will receive a 50 per cent scholarship on school fees, while the top student in each class will have their educational materials fully covered.

In a lecture entitled ‘Islamic Leadership and Community Development: Alhaja Sekinat Adekola as a Case Study’, Professor Taofeek Yekeen of the Agricultural Extension and Rural Development Department, University of Ibadan, noted that Alhaja Adekola has been a strong pillar of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN) Da’wah activities and a pioneer member of the Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN), with notable support for Islamic propagation.

Professor Yekeen called on parents, especially mothers, to emulate the legacy of service and dedication to Islam and humanity exemplified by the Iya Adinni of Yorubaland.

In her remarks, the nonagenarian celebrant, Alhaja Sekinat Adekola, expressed her joy at the honour of the surprise birthday celebration.

She noted that students of Arabian College are being impacted with knowledge of global standards, and she urged parents, particularly mothers, to preserve and intensify their efforts in collaboration with their spouses toward raising well-rounded children.

“This gives me great joy. I beseech Allah to protect Dr Musa Alongbija and his family,” she prayed.

A dedicated speech of exultation and prayers for Alhaja Adekola was presented by students in Junior Secondary School 3.

Students from kindergarten, nursery, primary and secondary classes delighted the audience with engaging presentations on topics such as healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, energy, civic education, riddles, Prophets and scriptures.

The event also featured cultural dance and choreography, spiced with melodious rhythms.

Highlights of the ceremony included the presentation of educational materials, such as textbooks, school bags and lunch boxes, as gifts to students, alongside certificate awards.

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