MSSN-NIJ Holds Handover Ceremony, Inducts New Executives
Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Nigerian Institute of Journalism Branch, MSSN-NIJ, has successfully concluded its 2026 Handover Ceremony and Award Day, inducting a new set of executives.
The event, themed “A New Chapter, A Greater Purpose: Continuity in Faith, Commitment & Service,” was held on Saturday, 8th August 2026, at the NIJ Auditorium, Ogba, Lagos, and brought together students, alumni, and guests to honour outgoing leaders and welcome the incoming team.
Speaking at the event, former alumnus of the institution, Mr. Jubril Abiola Olami, credited his career growth to focus, discipline, and the training he received while at NIJ, urging current students to set clear goals for themselves.
Sharing his career journey, he said he started as a reporter earning 25,000–30,000 naira before becoming Lead Consultant for Al Jazeera in Nigeria, while also attributing his success to mentorship and vision-setting during his student days.
He charged students to be intentional about their future, aim for excellence, and also pledged to continue mentoring NIJ students.
“Whenever you call upon me, I will always be available to give you tips and advice, to give back to the system that made me,” he said.
Delivering his opening speech, the outgoing Amir of MSSN-NIJ, Ogba Chapter, Yusuf Sodiq Olajide, encouraged the new executives to take up their responsibilities and lead with humility and the fear of Almighty Allah (SWT).
Speaking further, he enjoined the incoming executives to work in concert, uphold mutual respect, listen to members, and always prioritise the society’s interests and growth over personal gains.
The Coordinator of the Council of Higher Institutions, COHI, Alagbe Hamzah, urged Muslim students of the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, NIJ, to balance faith with academic excellence, saying their success is a responsibility to the wider Muslim community.
Mr. Hamzat praised the outgoing executives for their sacrifice and urged the incoming team to see leadership as a trust.
“Leadership in MSSN is not a title. It is a trust. You are here to serve, not to be served. Build a legacy, strengthen unity and remain sincere in your efforts.”
Also speaking at the event, a lecturer at the institution, Dr. Jide Johnson, described his work with students as “a divine responsibility,” saying his identity is tied to their welfare.
Dr. Jide, who claimed that his Islamic name is Jamiu, stressed the importance of observing religious obligations, while also urging the students to combine spirituality with their studies.
“Every innovation comes from the inspiration of God. So, I tell my students, when you don’t observe the five pillars of Islam, you are wasting your time. You are wasting your time, and you are wasting your life,” he noted.
The newly inaugurated Amir/President of MSSN-NIJ, Saheed Toba Kamaldeen, on behalf of the executives, appreciated the outgoing team for their sacrifice, commitment, and dedication, and urged his fellow executives to work together with sincerity.
“I can’t do this alone. I need more support, commitment, and compassion. Let’s work together as one team with sincerity, unity, and fear of Allah.”
“It is a responsibility and an opportunity to serve Allah. Let’s put our hearts into this work. Let’s support one another. Bring ideas and attend meetings. Participate in programmes and never feel that any task is too small,” he added.
Meanwhile, Saheed Toba Kamaldeen as Amir, while Issa Sharmsiya serves as Ameerah and Iroko Aishat as Naib’l Ameerah.
Other members of the new executive council are Junaid Zainab, Secretary; Abeeb Phaizat, Assistant Secretary; Yekini Khayrah Olamide, Treasurer; Adigun Faheedat, Assistant Treasurer; Saheed Boluwatife, Welfare Officer; Adeigbe Mutiat, Assistant Welfare 1; and Bello Mutiat, Assistant Welfare 2.
Others are Saheed Abdulrahamon Babatunde, Ameer Da’wah; Ibrahim Oke Mahmud, PRO 5; Jimoh Shuqroh Opeyemi, PRO 3; Fatai Aminat Oluwasemilore, PRO 1; Agbayewa Kafayat Opeyemi, PRO 2; Adio Basit, PRO 4; and Bello Azeem Damilare, Mu’adhin/Mosque Officer.
BY ABDULBAQI JIBREEL AJAO
