The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Adegboyega Oyetola, on Friday, inaugurated an ultramodern central mosque built in memory of his late mother, Alhaja Wulemotu Arike Oyetola, in Iragbiji, Osun State.

Describing the successful completion of the state-of-the-art mosque as “a dream come true,” Oyetola noted that it symbolised both fulfilment and accomplishment.

Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the minister revealed that constructing a modern central mosque was his mother’s lifelong dream. He expressed gratitude that he could bring that vision to reality.

“I thank Almighty Allah for the opportunity to commission this mosque today. It has been a dream come true. We have worked on this project for about two years in memory of my mother,” he stated.

Explaining the inspiration behind the mosque, Oyetola recounted how, in 2006, his mother was installed as the Iyalaje-Adini of the central mosque. When he asked her what she desired, she requested that he invite his friends to contribute towards renovating the mosque.

“In 2006, through my friends, I was able to raise 6.5 million naira for the mosque. Upon reflecting on what she would have wished for if she were still alive, I concluded that building a central mosque in her honour was the best way to remember her,” he added.

The minister expressed appreciation to those who supported the project, particularly the Asiwaju Musulumi of Yorubaland, Edo, and Delta states, Alhaji Tunde Badmus, as well as the people of Iragbiji and his friends.

As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, Oyetola urged Muslims to embrace peace, forgiveness, and prayers for national unity.

“Ramadan is a month of peace and forgiveness. We must ensure harmonious relationships with our neighbours and continue to pray for our leaders and our country. We must pray for our President. We all want to live in peace, and I believe that Allah’s blessings will be upon us,” he said.

Commissioning the mosque, Alhaji Khamis Tunde Badmus commended Oyetola for honouring his late mother’s dream, describing the gesture as exemplary.

He encouraged Muslims worldwide to invest in lasting Islamic legacies, emphasising that such deeds yield eternal rewards.

“The achievement we are witnessing today serves as a reminder that we must not forget our promises. The minister fulfilled a commitment made to his mother, who did not seek personal gains but rather something that would serve as a legacy in the hereafter. All the prayers and good deeds from this mosque will go to her,” Badmus remarked.

Earlier, the guest lecturer, Sheikh AbdulMojeed Imran, urged Nigerians to emulate Oyetola’s gesture by using their resources for the promotion and advancement of Islam.