Muslim Leaders Appealed for Sanwo-Olu’s Intervention for 134-yr-old Mosque.

Prominent Muslim leaders in Lagos have appealed to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to urgently lead the restoration of the historic Shitta-Bey Mosque, which was destroyed in a devastating fire that razed the Great Nigeria Insurance (GNI) Building and adjoining structures on Nnamdi Azikiwe Street, Lagos Island.

The appeal, jointly made by the Jamu’atul Muslimeen Council (Executive Council of the Lagos Central Mosque) and the Bashorun-in-Council of Olowogbowo Division, described the incident as a monumental loss to the Muslim Ummah, Lagos State, and Nigeria’s cultural heritage.

In a letter addressed to the Governor and copied to the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the leaders urged the Lagos State Government to spearhead the reconstruction of the mosque, describing it as an irreplaceable symbol of Islamic history, unity, and philanthropy in Lagos.

“It is with a heavy heart that we intimate Your Excellency on the destruction of our iconic heritage, the Shitta-Bey Mosque (Moshalashi Shitta-Bey), by the unfortunate fire that also razed the Great Nigeria Insurance Building and other properties along Nnamdi Azikiwe Street,” the letter said.

Built in 1891, the Shitta-Bey Mosque is widely regarded as the first internationally recognised mosque of modern standard in Nigeria. Noted for its Brazilian and Portuguese architectural influences, it was solely financed by renowned philanthropist and businessman, Chief Muhammad Shitta-Bey, formerly William Shitta.

The ceremonial opening on July 4, 1891, was attended by the then Governor of Lagos, Sir Gilbert Carter, and envoys from Turkey and Liverpool. On that occasion, Chief Shitta was conferred with the title of “Bey” on behalf of the Ottoman Sultan in recognition of his contributions to Islam.

Beyond this mosque, Chief Shitta-Bey also rebuilt the Lagos Central Mosque in 1873, replacing its mud structure with more durable materials. He was honoured as the first Seriki Musulumi of Lagos and later recognised as the second Baba Ajo, equivalent to today’s Baba Adinni.

Designated a National Monument by the Nigerian Commission for Museums and Monuments, the Shitta-Bey Mosque served as the main Ratibi mosque for thousands of Muslim traders and worshippers in Lagos Island’s central business district until the fire.

The leaders urged the state government to provide all necessary support to ensure the mosque’s full restoration, noting that such intervention would preserve a priceless legacy for future generations.