• As Jamaat-ul-Islamiyya opens Magodo Central Mosque

Renowned scholar, Dr. Saheed Timehin, has called on Muslims to convert their mosques into research centers, citing examples from foreign countries where mosques serve as vibrant hubs for learning and community engagement.

Dr. Timehin, who teaches at the Department of Foreign Languages, Faculty of Arts, Lagos State University, made this plea while delivering a lecture titled “The Role of Mosques As Centres For Education And Social Engagement” at the commissioning of the Division 7 Jamaat-ul-Islamiyya Central Mosque, Magodo, Lagos.

He emphasized that mosques should be more than just places of worship, but also centers for education, social engagement, and community development. Dr. Timehin noted that many Muslims neglect the upkeep of mosques, which should be revered as sacred spaces dedicated to the worship of God.

The scholar highlighted the rich history of mosques as institutions of learning, citing the example of the first university in the world, which originated from a mosque. He also pointed out that mosques in Arab countries are well-maintained and serve as vibrant community hubs.

Dr. Timehin’s vision for mosques includes: Libraries and classrooms: where Muslims can engage in lifelong learning and intellectual pursuits.

Vocational centers: where young people can acquire practical skills and training.

Community engagement: where mosques can serve as platforms for social activism, community service, and interfaith dialogue. Research and innovation: where Muslims can pursue scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and creativity.

The commissioning of the Division 7 Central Mosque, Magodo, Lagos Branch, was also marked by a fundraising launch for the J.I.N International Schools, Magodo, Lagos, with a target of N500 million. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Hon. Ibrahim Olanrewanju Layode, Commissioner for Home Affairs, commended the Jama-At-Ul-Islamiyya of Nigeria for the project and pledged to promote Islamic education in the state.