By Dapo Akinrefon

LAGOS – A group of Nigerian Muslims based in the United States, Canada, and Europe has announced plans to build a ₦500 million educational facility in Epe, Lagos State.

The group, a faith-based, non-profit organization, comprises eminent Nigerians dedicated to Islamic education and cultural preservation.

Speaking on the initiative, the visioner of the project, Ustaz Ahmed Lasisi, said the proposed Peace Centre for Culture and Knowledge aims to train and nurture young Muslims from kindergarten to adulthood.

Located in Ini-Iraye, Epe, the facility will serve both the school and the local community, offering a range of amenities, including: A mosque with a capacity for 700 males and 500 females, School buildings, including libraries, dormitories, and an Imam’s quarters, An event center for Walimot, weddings, and other Islamic functions, A befitting hall for knowledge-based seminars and lectures and An artificial turf for various sporting events.

Lasisi emphasized the importance of the project in protecting young Muslims from being lured away from their faith.

“We want to capture their minds when they are young. Many brilliant young Muslims have been drawn to other religions because there are no adequate facilities to meet their educational and spiritual needs,” he said.

Lasisi revealed that the project would be executed in four stages, with the first stage—the land acquisition—already completed. The entire project is expected to be completed within 18 months after groundbreaking.

“We seek donations from Muslims worldwide to complete this project. It is not just about us, but about securing the future of our young ones,” he stated.

He also highlighted the integration of Yoruba culture into the school’s curriculum, ensuring a blend of traditional values and Islamic teachings.

A Board of Trustees will oversee the project to ensure accountability and proper utilization of funds.

One of the board members, Ustaz Ibrahim Balogun, reassured donors: “Every single amount contributed will be used strictly for its intended purpose. We have men of integrity and deep faith who will monitor the project from start to finish.”

He added that upon completion, the Peace Centre for Culture and Knowledge would be a legacy institution, producing future Islamic scholars (ulamas) who will contribute positively to society.