Alhaja Sherifat Onifade, Zonal Women Affairs Secretary, NASFAT Osun
Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society of Nigeria (NASFAT) is one of the most respected Islamic organizations in the country — and much of its strength lies in the vibrant, spiritually grounded, and empowered women within its fold. Among the pillars holding the Osun Zone together is Alhaja Sherifat Onifade Kehinde, the Zonal Women Affairs Secretary, whose leadership has inspired transformation, sisterhood, and inclusion across the state.
In this exclusive interview with City People reporter, Jamiu Abubakar, Alhaja Onifade discusses what sets NASFAT women apart, her role and contributions, and her message to Nigerian women.
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What is the role of a Zonal Women Affairs Secretary in NASFAT?
Thank you for asking this question. NASFAT is one of the most prominent Muslim societies, not just in Nigeria but globally. As women in NASFAT, we are trained to be humble, pleasant, and tolerant. These are values deeply rooted in Islamic teachings.
As the Zonal Women Affairs Secretary, my role involves coordinating women’s activities across all branches in the zone, promoting empowerment, fostering unity, and ensuring the spiritual and personal growth of our women. I always emphasize that every NASFAT woman must be humble and pleasant — just like our dear Mama Kolade.
More importantly, we must be devoted to our families. Our children are our legacy. Even if one’s formal education is limited, like in the case of Mama Kolade, her dedication to her children’s education has brought her joy today. She is now enjoying the fruits of her hard work through her children — that’s real retirement.
We, as women, must also be prayerful — not just for our children, but for our neighbours, and everyone around us. When I face challenges, I pray with the intention of seeking God’s favour through the success of others’ children, and I always see results. That is the kind of heart a true Muslim woman should have.
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How long have you held this position as Zonal Women Affairs Secretary?
This is my fourth year in office. Each term lasts two years. When members are satisfied with your leadership, they can re-nominate you for a second term. I am currently in my first year of the second term.
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How has your leadership impacted NASFAT women in Osun State?
Empowerment is a major focus in NASFAT. In fact, it is one of our key missions. We have an empowerment secretary at every level — from branch to national. Our goal is to build strong, independent women. Because, as the saying goes, when you build a woman, you build a nation.
Secondly, we educate our women on how to maintain peaceful and happy homes. A woman who cannot manage her home is incomplete. NASFAT places great emphasis on building and maintaining a happy family life.
Thirdly, NASFAT encourages harmony across all religious groups. We do not discriminate. We believe everyone is equal before Allah. In fact, at our national programmes, we often invite Christian leaders to join us. We give them the opportunity to speak and share their own values. We do not label anyone as pagan — only Allah knows who is truly guided or not. A so-called non-believer today might become a believer tomorrow if Allah wills. So, we embrace unity and inclusion.
Can we know a bit about your personal and professional background?
Yes, of course. I am a proud native of Ilesa, Osun State, though I was born in Kano, and I can speak Hausa fluently. I had my primary education in Kano, secondary education in Ilesa, and then went on to Ibadan Polytechnic, where I earned my OND and HND.
I served as a local government officer in Osun State, retiring as a Level 14 officer. I worked for many years as a marriage registrar in the civil service. I’m now a pensioner.
In terms of religious service, I have always been deeply involved. I was the first Amirah of Deenul Haq when I was in secondary school. I also served as Amirah during the early years of Nakomyo in Ilesa. Currently, I am the Iya Egbe Alasalatu of the Nawairudeen Society in Ilesa, a member of the Elders’ Forum in our Central Mosque, and the Iya Adinni of the Ijesa Muslim Community.
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Finally, what message do you have for women in general, especially Muslim women?
My message is simple but important: Take proper care of your children. Not just basic care, but intentional and devoted care. Raise them with love, discipline, and faith. Educate them — both in western education and Islamic knowledge. When you do this, you build your future security.
Even if parents fail in their duty, if the children are properly grounded in Islamic teachings, they will still do right by their parents. But it is better not to leave it to chance. A child who knows Allah and fears Allah will honour their parents — whether the parents are deserving or not.
Look at me today — I’m 67 years old. When I tell people my age, they often don’t believe me. The same goes for Mama Kolade, who just turned 70. She doesn’t look it at all. That is the grace of Allah — and it flows through the good works and prayers of the children we’ve raised properly.
So to all mothers out there, invest in your children. They are your true legacy.
