The former president of the National Federation of Residents Associations (NFRA), Alhaji Azeez, will be laid to rest today, as tributes continue to pour in from colleagues, community leaders, and admirers who recall his profound impact on civic advocacy and community development.

Alhaji Azeez, who passed away earlier this week after a brief illness, is being remembered as a visionary leader whose contributions to grassroots governance and residents’ rights have left a lasting legacy. His burial, scheduled to take place according to Islamic rites, will be attended by family members, NFRA officials, political figures, and members of the communities he so passionately served.

A Lifetime of Service

Alhaji Azeez’s journey in public life spanned several decades. As NFRA president, he championed the voices of ordinary citizens, advocating for improved infrastructure, enhanced security, and transparent governance at the community level. Under his leadership, the NFRA grew into a formidable platform that represented the interests of residents associations nationwide.

Colleagues describe him as a selfless and tireless advocate who believed in the power of collective action. “He was a bridge between the government and the governed,” said one former NFRA official. “His calm demeanor, strategic thinking, and deep commitment to fairness made him a beloved figure across all sectors.”

Azeez was also instrumental in fostering collaborations between resident associations and local authorities, helping to resolve longstanding disputes and promoting inclusive decision-making processes.

Tributes and Condolences

Since news of his passing broke, tributes have flooded in from across the country. Many have taken to social media and public platforms to celebrate his life and mourn his loss.

The current president of the NFRA, Mrs. Folake Adeyemi, described Azeez as “an exceptional leader who set a standard that will be hard to match.” In a statement, she said, “Alhaji Azeez’s vision for a united and empowered citizenry guided the Federation through challenging times. His leadership was defined by wisdom, compassion, and an unshakable belief in justice.”

Political leaders, too, have expressed their condolences. A statement from the Office of the Governor praised Azeez’s contributions to social cohesion and grassroots democracy, calling his death “a significant loss not just to the NFRA, but to the nation as a whole.”

Community members who benefited directly from his work recalled his accessibility and readiness to listen. “He would sit with us in our small meetings, listen carefully, and follow up until problems were solved,” one resident shared. “He never saw himself as too big for anyone.”

Funeral Arrangements

According to the family spokesperson, the funeral prayer (Janazah) will be held at the Central Mosque following the Friday Jumu’ah prayer. His body will then be transported to his hometown, where he will be interred in accordance with Islamic customs.

Family members have requested privacy during the mourning period but expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and support. In a brief statement, his eldest son said, “We are comforted by the love that everyone has shown. Our father lived a full life in service to others. We are proud of him and will strive to uphold the values he cherished.”

Security arrangements are in place to ensure a smooth ceremony, with officials urging attendees to cooperate with marshals and respect the solemnity of the occasion.

A Lasting Legacy

Beyond his formal titles and achievements, those closest to Alhaji Azeez speak of his humility, generosity, and deep spirituality. He was known to support numerous charitable causes quietly, offering scholarships to underprivileged children, supporting widows, and sponsoring community healthcare initiatives.

In recognition of his contributions, several civic organizations have proposed posthumous honors, including the naming of a community center after him. Plans are also underway within the NFRA to establish an annual lecture series in his memory, focusing on grassroots development and community leadership.

As the nation bids farewell to a man who dedicated his life to service, there is a collective sense of gratitude for the path he paved and a renewed commitment to continue the work he so fervently believed in.

Alhaji Azeez is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren, all of whom he cherished deeply. His memory will undoubtedly endure in the hearts of those he touched and the communities he transformed.

May his soul rest in perfect peace.