A powerful blend of faith and femininity was on full display over the weekend as the Zones at Gbagada Expressway, Lagos, came alive with a large gathering of family, friends, and religious associates.
They had come to celebrate the literary voice of Rawsheedah Akorede Saheed on the occasion of her book launch.
The air in the hall was charged with emotion, expertly weaving together a sense of celebration, introspection, and personal discovery.
By 9:00 a.m., there wasn’t an empty seat in sight, and latecomers were forced to stand along the walls as the event unfolded in an atmosphere filled with joy and deep respect.
The author’s father, Alhaji AbdulRasheed Akorede, presided over the event.
He spoke with great pride about his daughter’s resilience and brilliance, expressing profound gratitude to God for making her long-held dream of becoming an author a reality with the successful launch of five books.
In his keynote address, Sheikh AbdulRahaman Ahmad, the Chief Missioner of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria and Overseas, delivered a lecture on “The Importance of Empowering Muslim Women through Faith.”
He spoke highly of women’s virtues, describing them as divinely blessed and endowed with a wisdom and strength that often surpasses men’s.
According to him, Allah has gifted women with a unique ability to nurture, shape, and sustain families with remarkable ease.
Sheikh Ahmad further added that the author’s brilliance was no surprise, given her lineage as a granddaughter of the late spiritual leader, Sheikh Mohammad Qazeem Yayi Akorede, former President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas, South West, Edo and Delta States.
He concluded his address by praying for the soul of the late cleric and urging every woman present to acquire copies of the newly launched books.
During her review, Dr. Aisha Adaviruku, a renowned peace and leadership coach, provided a detailed breakdown of the five books.
She highlighted their relevance, particularly for young married women, and encouraged them to use the works as practical guides for strengthening their marriages and fostering personal growth.
Following the book presentation, a special panel session was convened to discuss marriage and its contemporary challenges.
Panelists included Ustadh Kabir Al Asfar, Ustadh Lanre Ibn Abdullah As-Sudaisy, Princess Raliat, Basirat Ribigbe, Mutiat Olagoke, Ameenah Ali Yunus, and Barrister Siddeeqah Tunde Lawal.
The panel reached a consensus that patience remains the foundation of a successful and peaceful marriage, urging women to embrace it as an enduring virtue in managing their homes.
In his vote of thanks, the author’s husband, Ustadh Saheed Opadokun, expressed his deep appreciation to all the donors, guests, and supporters of the event.
He concluded with a prayer for Allah’s blessings upon their homes and families.
The event ultimately concluded on a high note of gratitude, inspiration, and a renewed commitment to strengthening faith, family, and the vital role of women in society.
See more photos from the event below:
