Prominent Muslim councils in Lagos State have made a direct appeal to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to spearhead the urgent restoration of the historic Shitta-Bey Mosque, a 134-year-old National Monument severely damaged in a recent inferno.
A Direct Appeal to the Governor
The call for action was formally issued in a joint statement by the Jamu’atul Muslimeen Council, the Executive Council of the Lagos Central Mosque, and the Bashorun-in-Council of Olowogbowo Division. The leaders have described the fire, which also destroyed the Great Nigeria Insurance Building and other properties on Nnamdi Azikiwe Street, Lagos Island, as a catastrophic loss for the Muslim community and the nation's cultural legacy.
In a letter addressed to Governor Sanwo-Olu and copied to Deputy Governor Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, the groups implored the state government to take full control of the reconstruction process. They emphasized that the mosque is not merely a place of worship but an enduring symbol of faith, unity, and philanthropy in Lagos, which must not be allowed to fall into ruin.
The Historical Significance of Shitta-Bey Mosque
Constructed in 1891, the Shitta-Bey Mosque holds a distinguished place in Nigerian history. It is widely acknowledged as the country's first modern mosque to gain international recognition. Its architecture, featuring distinctive Brazilian and Portuguese design influences, reflects the cosmopolitan style of late 19th-century Lagos.
The mosque was entirely funded by Chief Muhammad Shitta-Bey, a renowned merchant and philanthropist originally named William Shitta. Its official opening on July 4, 1891, was a major event, attended by the then Governor of Lagos, Sir Gilbert Carter, alongside dignitaries from Turkey and Liverpool. During this ceremony, Chief Shitta was honored with the title "Bey" by the Ottoman Sultan for his contributions to Islam.
Chief Shitta-Bey's legacy of philanthropy was already well-established, having earlier financed the reconstruction of the Lagos Central Mosque in 1873. He later became the first Seriki Musulumi of Lagos. The Shitta-Bey Mosque itself was designated a National Monument and served for decades as the primary Ratibi mosque for thousands of traders and worshippers in the bustling Lagos Island commercial district.
Call for Swift Government Intervention
The Muslim leaders have stressed the urgent need for the Lagos State Government to provide comprehensive support for the mosque's restoration. Their goal is to ensure this iconic site can continue to serve future generations and retain its immense historical and spiritual value. The fire has forced worshippers and local traders to suspend activities, underscoring the mosque's central role in the community's daily life.
The appeal frames the reconstruction not just as a building project, but as a vital mission to preserve a key chapter of Nigeria's Islamic and architectural heritage for posterity.
