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I Represent Women Who Aspire for Leadership and Power -Female Islamic Scholar, Alhaja Kafilat Kaola

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I Represent Women Who Aspire for Leadership and Power

Female Islamic Scholar, Alhaja Kafilat Kaola

 

Despite the challenges she faces regularly as a female custodian of Islamic knowledge, empowering voices of women in Islamic and social activities, Alhaja Kafilat Rufai a.k.a. Kaola has continued to play vital roles in advancing the Muslim community in Nigeria. The Ibadan, Oyo State born religious leader, who encourages women to take up their assigned roles in the male-dominated society, is not only a great scholar, but is also a charitable woman. This strong, resilient and intelligent woman who had authority in a number of areas, speaks in this interview about her mission and vision for Islam, as well as secrets around her life. Enjoy…

 

Tell us the secret behind the popularity of your name, Kaola.

Our elders say, the bigger the head the bigger the challenge. In meaning, the more the wealth the more the responsibilities. On that note, I would give glory to God almighty for standing by me always. He has never for once disappointed me because I have always walked in His path.

 

How do you feel when people talk about you or mention you in controversial issues?

It does not move me. My system has been immune to controversies since I was a teenager. My father had warned me of the challenges I would encounter in the future because I was destined to be a great person in life. He said I would face challenges but no matter how demanding the challenges are, he said I would be undefeated. So, I naturally am not bothered by the noise about me because they have been predicted.

 

How do you deal with controversy when they happen?

I take the noises with calmness. And I have noticed that when the noises are happening, Allah blesses me the most. I begin to attract more wealth, it brings me more honour, and peace of the mind. You can call it a blessing in disguise.

 

Many people see Alhaja Kaola in different lights. Tell us about yourself.

I give all thanks to Allah. I am Alhaja Kafilat Kaola, a young woman who was born at Imodapomola compound in Oke Are, Ibadan, Oyo State.  I am from a core Muslim family, Illiyasu Bodija. I was born of past generations of Muslim scholars who practiced Islam and adhered to its fundamental beliefs and practices. Never at a time did my forebears practiced any other faith than Islam. My ancestral origin was Senegal. My ancestors were Muslims who migrated from Senegal to the old Oyo. From Oyo, they moved to Iseyin. From Iseyin, the Ibadan natives specifically invited them to settle down with Islam. My biological father was the late Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Abdulkareem Ahmad Rufai. So, I was born a Muslim. I did not jump into it. I take pride in my noble background.

 

Will it be right to say that your ancestors introduced Islam to Ibadan or Yorubaland?

When talking about great Muslim scholars in Nigeria, my family would be mentioned. My grandfather, Sheikh Ahmad Rufai, was the first Mufty in Nigeria, who was authorized to interpret Islamic laws. He was honoured with the title in Egypt based on the endorsement by top Islamic scholars from northern Nigeria.

 

How should you be addressed? Are you  also an Alfa, just as male scholars are known?

Yes, I should be addressed as Alfa because I am an Alfa. There’s nothing a man can do that a woman cannot do. If you have been following me, you would have realized that I do almost everything that a man does. And men give me recognition for it. Alhamdulillah.

 

 

In Islam, women are not supposed to do certain things like men…

Cuts in… In Islam, women are not considered inferior to men. Islam treats women equally. The holy book, Al-Qur’an, says men and women have similar rights. Although, men are placed in a vantage point. Besides, in the field I’m in, many of my fellow women do not have the opportunity to be there.  Women are just coming up actively to advocate for their rights in a society where men hold greater power and influence. I want to appreciate Allah for the opportunity given me to represent fellow women who are aspiring to take their rightful place in the society and enjoy the same privilege I’m enjoying.

 

Would you like to share  with us a personal challenge that bothers you, if any?

The only challenge that I nurse which is personal is my marital life. It has not been without issues.   As a believer of Allah, I am overly trusting in people and I consider this as my greatest weakness. The men I trusted with love often became a curse to my life. Loving men has always led to disappointment and even harm for me. But I take solace in the fact that God does not grant man everything in life. He does as He wishes.

 

Tell us about the preparations for this year’s Hajj travel.

We are 100 percent ready for the 2025 hajj. All the necessary travel documents of our pilgrims are ready. We are using three airlines for the trip this year. We have Turkish Airlines, Ethiopian Airlines and Kenyan Airlines. My pilgrims, including me, are flying from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport on the same day, by the special grace of God. And with all the packages, which include flight ticket, accommodation, transportation, and even additional services like meals or guidance, I, Alhaja Kafilat, collected N8.8 million, which is the same price collected by the state government for this year’s hajj. For a private company like ours, this year’s pilgrims are supposed to pay N14 million.

 

What are the unusual challenges that you encounter coordinating a hajj trip every year?

Since close to two decades that the Almighty Allah has set up Kaolat Al-Imam Travels and Tours Limited, we have not had any challenges too overwhelming to overcome. We have passed a stage where people who patronize us would have complaints over travel documents. People come to us from all over Nigeria, France and other places. Sometimes, we would beg people who sent us money to identify themselves. I’m happy to tell you that some people have even deposited money for the 2026 year’s hajj because we have had our complete numbers of pilgrims for this year. Although, it has not been all smooth; my personality and businesses have been attacked on several occasions but Allah has been faithful to us. I do not take that for granted.

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

 

The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.

The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.

Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.

As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

 

Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:

“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”

 

This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.

 

 

According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.

 

 

“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”

 

Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.

 

 

By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

 

 

For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.

 

 

As one youth participant reflected:

“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”

 

The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.

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