Nigerian Muslims in UK announce fundraising plans for rebuilding of over 100 years Old Kent Road Mosque
Nigerian Muslims in United Kingdom under the auspices of Muslim Association of Nigeria (UK), have announced plans for the rebuilding of the Old Kent Road Mosque and Islamic Cultural Centre.
Project Administrator of the rebuilding, Eletu Ishau, in a statement made available to The Shield Online said construction will commence after the forthcoming month of Ramadan, pointing out that “We are presently on a fundraising drive towards the first phase of the project. “
He added that “As part of the fundraising efforts, an online event is scheduled for 27th March 2021.”
The statement from the association further said that “The Old Kent Road Mosque, whilst serving a diverse congregation, is home to London’s oldest Nigerian Muslim community and have been blessed with a thriving congregational hub in the heart of South London.
“Our current building has existed for over 100 years and was acquired as an abandoned pub in the early 90s. Since then, our community has grown exponentially, alhamdulillah.
“Our current premises have become inadequate for us to continue serving our flourishing community in the best way possible. We have outgrown our current building, which has accommodated us for almost 30 years and the building has now reached the end of its operational lifespan.
“We wish to provide the best resources for our worshippers and realise continued positive change through our educational, youth, elders, interfaith and community-focused programmes. We wish to welcome even more worshippers through our doors and get more people involved with our various schemes. These reasons outline our rationale for the project. We plan to demolish the existing three-storey building and build a new sixstorey mosque, Insha’Allah.
“The redevelopment of the mosque will double our current prayer space areas for men and women; expand our Islamic Studies School (Markaz); feature sport and youth facilities; and help strengthen our outreach within our community.
“Our congregation members come from different walks of life and our doors are open to all. We truly appreciate the diversity of our people who each enrich the community spirit of our mosque. We promote spiritual development, community engagement and mutual respect for all.
“Alhamdulilah, our community has raised just over £1 million towards this venture and we require an additional £1 million to complete the initial phase of the redevelopment. A further £6 million will be required to complete the new Masjid rebuild (Phases 2 & 3).
“Please help support our growing community and don’t miss out on the opportunity to invest in your Akhirah and attain the pleasure of the Almighty.
“May Allah SWT purify our intentions and accept all our endeavours as a form of ibadah. Ameen
“Jaza’kumuLlahu Khairan. “
