By Ayoade Ganiyat
The Bodija Estates and Environs Muslim Community (BEEMC) held its 2026 Ileya Picnic at LB Arena, Favours Area, Bodija, Ibadan. The picnic, which was an event aimed at bridging Islam and social life, was graced by community members, children, families, and friends.
LB Arena, Bodija provided a serene atmosphere that breathed love, unity, relaxation, and celebration of the Eid-ul-Adha picnic by BEEMC, as it further served as a medium of connection for all.
Speaking at the event, the BEEMC Vice Chairman, Alhaji Toafeeq Olayiwola, expressed his enthusiasm. He said, “We’ve been doing this for years before, but this one is the first of its kind.”
He added that, “It was a thrilling moment to see our youth doing great things like this and making waves in their respective endeavours. Apparently, they are ready to climb the ladder while the elders grow old.”
Alhaji Olayiwola concluded by praying for the owner of LB Arena for his great innovation and encouraged others to emulate such initiatives for the benefit of humanity. He then implored the youth to encourage more people to join the community.
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Also addressing the gathering, the BEEMC Social Secretary, Mr. Wahab Abiodun Kamar, appreciated the presence of everyone. He also acknowledged the support of the committee members and the owner of LB Arena in making the event a fulfilling, enjoyable, and memorable one.
“Let’s enjoy, relate together, and explore the beauty of Islam and its teachings as we enjoy the fun, games, menu, and every other activity we have planned for the day,” he said.
At the picnic were various games that kept both adults and children engaged throughout the event under the supervision of game instructors.
Also, in their collective remarks, members commented on their satisfactory picnic experience as they enjoyed themselves fully and expressed hope of having another memorable outing next year. They also prayed that Allah would spare their lives until then.
The BEEMC Youth Chairman, in his closing remarks, prayed for everyone, while the atmosphere became lively as the elders and youth took to dancing amidst laughter and excitement before dispersing to their respective destinations.
Present at the event were prominent members of the community, including the BEEMC Vice Chairman, Alhaji Toafeeq Olayiwola; the Community Secretary, Mr. Aiki Afeez; the BEEMC Youth Chairman, Alhaji AbdulAzeez Kolawole; Alhaji Ahmad Ajani; the owner of LB Arena, Alhaji Abeeb Leke; Mr. Isaac; the PRO, Mr. Akintunde Yusuf; Alh. Shuayb Ishola; Mr. AbdulAzeez SAF; Mr. Afeez Okikiola; Alh. Ishola; the BEEMC Youth Amirah, Mrs. Alarape Aminat; Alhaja Khadija; AlWajud Amirah, Alhaja Badamas; Alhaja Oyedeji lbijoke Sherifa; Alhaja B.A.K.GIWA; Alhaja Suara; Alhaja Balogun, and other elder members of the community.
Among the female youths in attendance were Mrs Risikat, Mrs. Salawudeen, Mrs. Adedokun, Mrs. Ganiyat, Mrs. Mudashir, Mrs. Rukayat, Mrs. Fauziyyah, Mrs. Barakat Are, Mrs. Misturah, Mrs. Awojudu Kafayat, and Miss Sofiah
