Alausa Mosque sets benchmark for I’tikaf, says Sanwo-Olu aide
The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Tajudeen Afolabi, has described the I’tikaf programme at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque (LSCCM)
The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement, Dr. Tajudeen Afolabi, has described the I’tikaf programme at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque (LSCCM) otherwise known as Alausa Secretariat Mosque, as one of the best in Lagos State, citing over 25 years of consistent participation and steady improvement.
Speaking during this year’s I’tikaf, Dr. Afolabi, who is also the immediate past Chairman of the mosque, said his continued presence at the annual spiritual exercise was driven by long-standing commitment rather than his previous leadership role.
“I have been observing I’tikaf in this mosque for over 25 years, even before I became chairman. Every year, we see significant improvements, and today, this mosque’s I’tikaf is the one to beat in Lagos State,” he said.
He highlighted the high standard of facilities provided for worshippers, noting that the mosque ensures a clean and comfortable environment, adequate bedding arrangements, and a well-organised system for participants, known as Mu’takifeen.
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According to him, the feeding arrangement has been particularly commendable, with participants provided quality meals that include a balance of protein options.
“For every meal, there is provision for both meat and fish, ensuring that everyone has options. We have not received complaints this year,” he added.
Earlier, Chairman of LSCCM, Abdulhafis Toriola, an engineer, told The Nation that 355 people comprising 228 males, 127 females, were in the mosque for the 10-day spiritual activities.
Toriola, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Housing, said those who registered for the I’tikaf were more than that.
According to him, over 75 participants were moved to the Shamsi Adisa Thomas (SAT) Mosque, GRA, Ikeja also known as Old Secretariat Mosque.
Dr. Afolabi also pointed to the mosque’s investment in infrastructure, including constant electricity supply supported by solar energy and high-capacity generators, improved air-conditioning systems, and enhanced security through the installation of Close Circuit Television (CCTV) cameras within and around the mosque.
He explained that despite the high standard of services, the cost of participation remains modest at N140,000, stressing that the mosque management subsidises expenses to maintain quality.
“We do not rely solely on what participants pay; the mosque augments to ensure we meet expectations,” he said.
The Special Adviser further linked the quality of services at the mosque to Lagos State’s broader governance philosophy of excellence, noting that the Secretariat environment must reflect the state’s reputation as a leading centre of governance in Nigeria.
“This is the seat of government, the corridor of power in Lagos State. Whatever we do here must align with the standard of excellence the state is known for,” he stated.
On the spiritual aspect, Dr. Afolabi described the nightly Taraweeh and Tahajjud prayers as deeply impactful, with Qur’an recitations by experienced clerics and young prodigies creating an emotionally uplifting atmosphere for worshippers.
He also commended the sermon delivered during the last Friday of Ramadan, describing it as reflective, well-coordinated, and impactful, adding that participants always leave with valuable lessons.
Expressing gratitude, he prayed for the mosque’s leadership and called on Allah to reward their efforts as acts of Ibadah, while also seeking the opportunity to witness many more Ramadan seasons in good health.
Dr. Afolabi reaffirmed that the primary goal of the programme remains to provide a conducive environment for worship and ensure that all participants derive maximum spiritual benefit throughout the holy month.
