A few days ago, the quiet town of Obaagun, near Ikirun in Osun State, came alive with joy and celebration as family, friends, and well-wishers gathered to honour Alhaja Zulifat Kolade on her 70th birthday. It was a glamorous and heartwarming event that drew a large crowd, particularly from the Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society of Nigeria (NASFAT) — a testament to the deep respect and admiration she commands within the Islamic society.
Members of NASFAT, especially from various branches across Osun State, turned out in great numbers to celebrate one of their own. Notably present was Alhaja Sherifat Onifade Kehinde, the Zonal Women Affairs Secretary for NASFAT, Osun Zone, who spoke with City People Reporter, JAMIU ABUBAKAR, about why Alhaja Zulifat Kolade is so dearly regarded within the NASFAT community.
Below are excerpts from what she said.
“I’ve known Alhaja Zulifat Kolade for many years, but we became much closer between 2021 and now, when she served as the Branch Women Affairs Secretary for NASFAT, Ikirun Branch, for two terms — a total of four years,”
“She is a remarkably pleasant woman. In fact, ‘pleasant’ doesn’t fully capture who she is — it’s a word that carries many meanings when it comes to her. She is peaceful, selfless, and ever willing to serve. Nothing is ever a burden for her; she does everything from her heart and with joy, never waiting to be pushed or convinced.”
“That’s why we affectionately call her ‘Mama Kosewu’ — meaning a woman who never sees anything as a problem. She’s always available, always supportive. Personally, I often seek her advice. Whenever I call her, she simply says, ‘Iyawa, there’s no problem.’ And truly, once she says that, there’s peace. Her words are reassuring. Her counsel is wise.”
“She genuinely cares for everyone. She carries people along with love and dignity. She’s not just pleasant — she’s dependable and trustworthy. That’s the Alhaja Zulifat Kolade we all know and love.”
“Our birthday wish for her is long life, good health, and abundant blessings — especially for her children and grandchildren,”
“She may be slowing down professionally, but her spiritual role is more important now than ever. We want her to focus on praying for her family. We pray that God continues to uplift her children and grant her peace and joy. We don’t want her to face sorrow or illness. May she never weep over any of her children, and may the legacy left behind by her late husband bring her comfort, not grief.”
Indeed, Alhaja Zulifat Kolade’s impact resonates beyond her age or titles. To many within NASFAT Osun Zone, she is a pillar of strength, a source of wisdom, and an embodiment of service. Her 70th birthday wasn’t just a celebration of life — it was a celebration of legacy.
