The ancient town of Ijebu-Ode came alive as over 300 entrepreneurs, scholars, and industry professionals converged for the 2025 edition of the Ijebu Muslim Business Summit (IMBS), a platform designed to harmonize commerce with Islamic ethics in pursuit of sustainable economic growth. Held under the compelling theme, “Sustaining Growth with Islamic Principles,” the summit attracted business leaders and innovators who are committed to driving development without compromising faith-based values.
The gathering served as a melting pot of ideas, where participants engaged in robust conversations around Islamic finance, ethical entrepreneurship, and economic inclusion. Delivering the keynote address, Professor Tajudeen Yusuf, President of the Institute of Islamic Finance Professionals, charged the audience to embrace enterprise models rooted in justice, trust, and fairness. Speaking on the topic “Building a Sustainable Future: Harnessing Islamic Principles for Business Growth and Economic Prosperity,” Professor Yusuf emphasized that Islamic finance is not merely a spiritual alternative but a pragmatic framework for economic empowerment, resilience, and integrity in business.
The interactive panel sessions further amplified the summit’s core message. Alhaji Afui Ettu, the Chief Executive Officer of Folafunmi Pharmacy, highlighted how integrity and resilience have helped build trust in his healthcare retail operations. His remarks reinforced the idea that ethical practices in business are not only sustainable but profitable in the long run.
Mr. Raheem Musa, Managing Director of Hayat Trust Non-Interest Microfinance Bank Ltd, provided an in-depth look into the benefits of non-interest banking. He explained how the model could serve as a powerful tool in tackling poverty, especially in underserved communities. Similarly, Dr. Jubril Olukayode Lasisi, founder and CEO of Kaylass Innovation and Investment Ltd, advocated for greater investment in Halal-compliant innovation, noting that unlocking such potential could open new frontiers for Muslim entrepreneurs.
Technology and its alignment with Islamic values were not left out of the conversation. Mr. Sherrif Awonuga, Chief Technology Officer of Autocredit and TTA, demonstrated how fintech solutions can be scaled within a Shariah-compliant framework. His insights drew attention to the growing opportunities in ethical digital finance.
From the youth perspective, Miss Hajarah Adams, founder of HajjyGadgets, inspired the audience by narrating her journey as a young digital entrepreneur. She stressed the importance of balancing ambition with religious consciousness, encouraging fellow youth to view faith as a guide, not a barrier, to success in commerce.
Adding a social welfare dimension to the summit, Professor Taofiki Ajani Salako, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Al-Hayat Relief Foundation, called for stronger collaboration between Islamic charitable foundations and entrepreneurial platforms. He argued that such synergies could foster inclusive economic empowerment across Muslim communities.
Barrister AbdurRafii Adesina Baruwa, Principal Partner at Hijrah Attorneys, offered clarity on the legal terrain surrounding interest-free business operations in Nigeria, encouraging participants to seek proper legal guidance when structuring their enterprises. On a similar note, Dr. Asif Azeez, Chief Executive Officer of Tubazas Concepts, stressed the importance of mentorship as a cornerstone for sustainable business growth, particularly among emerging entrepreneurs.
One of the high points of the summit was the awarding of a ₦200,000 business support grant to select Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), aimed at helping them scale operations while remaining compliant with Islamic business ethics. The grant reflects IMBS’s commitment to not only promote ideas but to provide real-time support to deserving businesses.
As the summit drew to a close, the Convener, Mr. Baruwa Ubaydullah, expressed heartfelt appreciation to all contributors and attendees. In his words, “This summit is more than an event; it is a movement. It is about building a future where our business values are driven not only by profit but by purpose grounded in Islamic principles.”
With renewed inspiration, strengthened networks, and actionable insights, participants departed the summit more prepared to drive impactful change in Nigeria’s business landscape—one that reflects both economic progress and spiritual integrity.