Chief Imam Ogbomoso Biography: The Story of Alhaji (Dr.) Imam Yunus Teliat Olushina, widely known as Ayilara II, blends deep Islamic scholarship, disciplined public service and traditional leadership within Yorubaland.
As the Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland, his journey reflects decades of learning, teaching, community service and spiritual leadership.
This Chief Imam Ogbomoso biography presents a comprehensive, well-researched account of his life, from birth and education to career milestones, installation, leadership philosophy and ongoing influence in Ogbomoso and beyond.
Ogbomoso, one of the most prominent towns in Oyo State, has a rich Islamic heritage dating back to the nineteenth century.
Want to stay updated about everything in NIGERIA?
Click the button below to join our WhatsApp group...
The position of Grand Chief Imam is therefore not only religious but also cultural and historical.
Since his appointment in November 2021, Dr Yunus Teliat Olushina Ayilara has continued this legacy while introducing a more scholarly, engaging and community-focused approach to the office.
Who Is the Chief Imam of Ogbomoso?
Alhaji (Dr.) Imam Yunus Teliat Olushina (Ayilara II) is the Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland.
He was officially appointed on November 19, 2021, by the late Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III, following the demise of the former Chief Imam, Alhaji Yekeen Sanusi Asafa.
Beyond his religious role, he is also a senior officer of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, holding the rank of Deputy Superintendent of Corps.
His dual identity as a religious scholar and a disciplined security professional has shaped his leadership style, making him a respected figure across religious, academic and government circles.
Early Life: Chief Imam Ogbomoso Biography
Birth and Roots in Ogbomoso
Dr Yunus Teliat Olushina Ayilara was born into a devout Muslim family in Ogbomoso North Local Government Area of Oyo State.
His roots in Ogbomoso run deep, and his upbringing was firmly grounded in Islamic values, communal responsibility and respect for knowledge.
From an early age, he was exposed to Qur’anic learning and traditional Islamic education, which laid the foundation for his lifelong pursuit of scholarship.
Family Heritage and Upbringing
He hails from a lineage known for Islamic learning and service.
Growing up in a household where religion and discipline were emphasised, young Yunus developed a strong sense of purpose early in life.
His parents ensured that he balanced Western education with Islamic studies, a decision that later positioned him as a bridge between classical Islamic scholarship and modern academic training.
Education: Chief Imam Ogbomoso Biography
Education stands at the core of this Chief Imam Ogbomoso biography. Dr Ayilara’s academic journey spans traditional Islamic institutions and some of Nigeria’s most respected tertiary institutions.
Primary and Secondary Education
He began his formal education in Ogbomoso, where he attended primary and secondary schools that combined basic Western education with Islamic moral instruction.
Alongside this, he studied Qur’an, Arabic language and basic Islamic jurisprudence under local scholars.
Arabic and Islamic Studies Training
His passion for Arabic and Islamic studies led him to the Zulikha Abiola Centre for Arabic and Islamic Studies, Abeokuta.
In 2005, he obtained the Thannawiyyah certificate, a significant qualification in Islamic education that signifies advanced training in Arabic language, Qur’an, Hadith and Fiqh.
Nigeria Certificate in Education
In the same year, he earned a Nigeria Certificate in Education in Arabic and Islamic Studies from the Federal College of Education, Abeokuta.
This qualification formally positioned him as a trained educator, capable of teaching Arabic and Islamic studies at secondary and tertiary levels.
University of Ibadan Degrees
Dr Ayilara’s academic excellence continued at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria’s premier university.
Bachelor’s Degree
In 2011, he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Arabic Language and Literature.
His undergraduate years were marked by active participation in academic and student religious organisations, where he was known for intellectual depth and leadership.
Master’s Degree
He proceeded to earn a Master’s degree in Arabic and Islamic Studies in 2016.
His postgraduate research further strengthened his expertise in Arabic literature, Islamic thought, and contemporary issues affecting Muslim societies.
Doctor of Philosophy
Crowning his academic journey, he obtained a PhD in Arabic and Islamic Studies from the University of Ibadan.
This achievement places him among the relatively few Nigerian chief imams with doctoral-level training, reinforcing his reputation as a scholar imam rather than a ceremonial figure.
Career in Teaching and Islamic Scholarship
Early Teaching Roles
Dr Ayilara began his career as a classroom teacher, teaching Arabic and Islamic studies in secondary schools.
These early roles helped him refine his teaching methods and deepen his understanding of how best to communicate Islamic knowledge to young learners.
Teaching at Islamic Institutions
He later taught at reputable Islamic institutions, including the Zulikha Abiola Centre for Arabic and Islamic Studies.
His reputation as a disciplined, clear and engaging teacher attracted many students, some of whom are now scholars and community leaders in their own right.
Founder of Talihat Yusuf Centre for Arabic and Islamic Studies
One of his most significant contributions to Islamic education is the establishment of the Talihat Yusuf Centre for Arabic and Islamic Studies.
The centre was founded to provide quality Arabic and Islamic education, combining classical curricula with modern teaching methods.
Through this institution, he has mentored hundreds of students and contributed to the intellectual growth of Muslim communities in Ogun and Oyo States.
Service in the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps
Entry into the NSCDC
Alongside his academic and religious pursuits, Dr Ayilara joined the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps.
His decision to serve in a security agency reflects his belief that religious leadership should extend into nation-building and public service.
Rank and Responsibilities
Rising through the ranks, he attained the position of Deputy Superintendent of Corps. In this role, he has been involved in administration, training and community security initiatives.
His calm temperament, integrity and leadership skills have earned him respect among colleagues.
Balancing Security Service and Religious Leadership
Balancing a demanding security career with the responsibilities of an imam is no small feat.
Dr Ayilara has managed this balance through discipline and effective time management, demonstrating that religious scholars can actively contribute to national development beyond the mosque.
Emergence as Chief Imam
Chief Imam of Adiam Memorial Central Mosque
Before his elevation to the position of Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, Dr Ayilara served as the Chief Imam of Adiam Memorial Central Mosque, Iporo Ake, Abeokuta.
His tenure there was marked by increased educational activities, structured sermons and stronger community engagement.
Reputation Beyond Abeokuta
His lectures, writings and public engagements extended his influence beyond Abeokuta, making him a recognised Islamic scholar in southwestern Nigeria.
This reputation played a role in his eventual consideration for the highest Islamic office in Ogbomoso.
Appointment as Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomoso
The Selection Process
Following the death of the former Chief Imam of Ogbomoso, Alhaji Yekeen Sanusi Asafa, the process of appointing a successor began.
Traditional authorities, Islamic leaders and the palace were involved in consultations, in line with Ogbomoso customs.
Installation by the Soun of Ogbomoso
On November 19, 2021, Dr. Yunus Teliat Olushina Ayilara was officially appointed and installed as the Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland by the late Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Jimoh Oladunni Oyewumi Ajagungbade III. His installation marked a new chapter in the Islamic leadership of the town.
Significance of His Appointment
His emergence as Grand Chief Imam was significant for several reasons. He is among the most academically qualified to hold the position, and his background in both scholarship and public service set him apart from many predecessors.
Controversies and Leadership Challenges
Disputes Surrounding the Office
Like many traditional and religious offices in Nigeria, the position of Chief Imam of Ogbomoso has not been without controversy.
After his appointment, there were reports of disagreements and legal or communal disputes regarding the structure of the imamate.
The Palace Imam Narrative
Some reports mentioned the emergence of a separate Chief Imam of the Palace, identified in certain sources as Sheikh Habeeb Ayilara, who allegedly performed some religious functions at the palace.
These reports created confusion among sections of the public.
Official Recognition
Despite these narratives, Dr Yunus Teliat Olushina Ayilara has continued to be recognised by traditional authorities and the wider Muslim community as the Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland.
As of late 2024, he remains the acknowledged holder of the office.
Leadership: Chief Imam Ogbomoso Biography
Scholar Imam Approach
One defining feature of Dr. Ayilara’s leadership is his active involvement in teaching and preaching.
Unlike the older tradition where chief imams primarily led prayers, he regularly delivers lectures, sermons and educational programmes.
Emphasis on Knowledge and Understanding
He believes that Muslims should understand their faith intellectually as well as spiritually.
His sermons often draw from the Qur’an, Hadith, classical Arabic texts and contemporary issues, making them relevant to modern audiences.
First to Observe Itikaf with Congregation
He is noted as the first Grand Chief Imam in Ogbomoso to observe Itikaf, the spiritual seclusion during Ramadan, together with his congregation at the central mosque.
This act strengthened communal spirituality and revived an important Islamic tradition in the town.
Contributions to Islamic Unity in Ogbomoso
Bridging Generational Gaps
Dr Ayilara has worked to bridge the gap between older Muslim generations and younger, educated Muslims. By using clear language and engaging methods, he appeals to youths without alienating elders.
Engagement with Islamic Organisations
He maintains active relationships with Islamic organisations, scholars and institutions across Nigeria. These connections help position Ogbomoso as an important centre of Islamic scholarship in the southwest.
Promoting Peace and Social Harmony
His sermons often emphasise peaceful coexistence, moral uprightness and civic responsibility.
Drawing from his security background, he frequently speaks on the importance of lawfulness and community peace.
Personal Life: Chief Imam Ogbomoso Biography
Marriage and Family
Dr Yunus Teliat Olushina Ayilara is married and blessed with children. Despite his public responsibilities, he maintains a private family life rooted in Islamic values and discipline.
Character and Lifestyle
Those who know him describe him as calm, disciplined and deeply reflective. He is known for his modest lifestyle, intellectual curiosity and commitment to continuous learning.
Influence Beyond Ogbomoso
National and International Recognition
Through conferences, seminars and academic engagements, Dr Ayilara has interacted with scholars within and outside Nigeria. His academic work in Arabic and Islamic studies continues to contribute to scholarly discourse.
Mentorship and Legacy Building
A key part of his mission is mentorship. He invests time in grooming young scholars, imams and teachers, ensuring that Islamic leadership in Ogbomoso and Nigeria remains knowledgeable and ethical.
Assessment of His Impact as Chief Imam
Strengthening Islamic Education
Since assuming office, there has been increased emphasis on structured Islamic education and scholarly preaching in Ogbomoso.
Redefining the Role of a Chief Imam
Dr. Ayilara has helped redefine what it means to be a chief imam in a modern Nigerian city. His role goes beyond ritual leadership to include education, social commentary and moral guidance.
Challenges Ahead
Like all religious leaders, he faces challenges, including managing diverse opinions within the Muslim community and navigating the intersection of tradition and modernity.
His academic training and administrative experience position him well to handle these challenges.
Conclusion of Chief Imam Ogbomoso Biography
This Chief Imam Ogbomoso biography presents Alhaji (Dr.) Imam Yunus Teliat Olushina Ayilara as a scholar, teacher, security officer and spiritual leader whose life reflects dedication to knowledge and service.
From his early days in Ogbomoso to earning a PhD from the University of Ibadan, and from teaching Arabic to leading one of the most significant Islamic communities in Oyo State, his journey is both inspiring and instructive.
As of 2026, he continues to serve as the Grand Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland, guiding the community with scholarship, humility and vision.
His legacy is still unfolding, but his impact on Islamic leadership in Ogbomoso is already firmly established.
For more wikis, log on to www.newkwaraonline.com.ng
Want to stay updated about everything in NIGERIA?
Click the button below to join our WhatsApp group...
