On this Democracy Day, I had intended to rest my pen. I wanted to leave the fate written on the walls of history to speak for itself. I thought perhaps the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy were enough testimony. Yet, in the final hour, a thought stirred within me, compelling me to write a message to all of us who have come together to form this sovereign nation called Nigeria. My message is particularly for those who believe that the business of Nigeria lies in the hands of a powerful few. Perhaps they are influenced by what the German sociologist Robert Michels described as the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" ,the tendency for power to concentrate in the hands of a small elite. Looking at our politics, our institutions, and our economy, one may be tempted to believe that the destiny of Nigeria is determined only by those who occupy powerful offices and influential positions. But history tells a different story. Nigeria does not belong to any president, governor, politi...
Daarus-Salam Founder, Alh Olawale Robiu Ajani Launches Ibn-Nafees Academy, Merges Heritage with Modern Herbal Education in Osun
A significant new chapter has opened in the world of traditional medicine as the founder of Daarus-Salam Herbal Medicine Centre, Alhaji Olawale Robiu Ajani, announced the establishment of Ibn-Nafees Academy, an educational initiative affiliated with Daarus-Salam and the Omotosho Foundation.
Speaking on a popular podcast titled 'Lero Temi' anchored by Mukhtar Ajelogbon of Osun Reporters, Alhaji Robiu disclosed that the academy has received full government approval and will commence operations soon. The new academy, located at Gbobamu-Orioke Ilobu town in Irepodun local government area of Osun State is designed to advance herbal medicine studies, promote research, and preserve indigenous medical knowledge for future generations.
An illustrious native of Ilobu, Alhaji Robiu recalled how his journey began with the gift of free education between 1955 and 1956. His dedication to agriculture once caught the attention of former Nigerian Head of State and later civilian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, in 1978.
“I was invited to Ifako High School on June 17, 1978, after the inspection of my farm,” he recounted. “The old Oyo State Government at the time recognized my effort in farming, but due to land constraints and limited resources, I later shifted my focus to herbal medicine.”
Daarus-Salam Expands Herbal Frontiers with Three Dedicated Departments
Daarus-Salam operates through three distinct departments, each designed to promote the advancement and globalization of herbal medicine.
The first department was established to foster the study and modernization of traditional herbal practices, ensuring that indigenous knowledge aligns with global standards through classroom learning.
Within this department, modern machines are used to process natural ingredients, grinding leaves, roots, and stems into potent medicinal forms. Beyond production, Daarus-Salam also trains individuals on how to identify, prepare, and apply herbs effectively for therapeutic use.
Another department focuses on large-scale production, where carefully processed herbs are transformed into finished medicinal products. Here, scientific precision meets traditional wisdom, producing remedies that are both safe and effective.
Through this structured approach, Daarus-Salam continues to bridge the gap between traditional herbal knowledge and modern health innovation, laying the groundwork for the Ibn-Nafees Academy to thrive as a center of excellence in herbal education and research.
Beyond his herbal practice, Alhaji Robiu has worn many hats. During the old Western Region era, he served as Secretary of the Barber’s Association, became the first registrant in the pure water business, and later founded Rabia Bakery, contributing significantly to community enterprise and development.
Reflecting on his life’s journey, he revealed that his encounter with long illness became the turning point that led him into herbal practice.
“That ailment gave me in-depth knowledge of medicine while searching for a solution,” he said. “At a point, I realized that burying my experience wasn’t enough. I needed to use it to help others.”
He credited his mentor, the late Alhaji Omotosho, for shaping his humanitarian spirit.
“The late Alhaji Omotosho loved me more than himself,” he said. “He was known for helping people, and his life reflected the scripture that says, Love your neighbor as yourself. His mentorship inspired me to serve with sincerity.”
Continuing his legacy, Alhaji Robiu disclosed that his children are now deeply involved in the herbal field.
“One of my sons graduated from Sudan because of our herbal studies, while another is based in Lagos,” he shared. “They are test-running different operations with my staff. It’s not enough to acquire knowledge; it must be passed down to our people.”
With over four decades of impact in herbal medicine, Alhaji Robiu Ajani’s establishment of the Ibn-Nafees Academy marks a bold step toward institutionalizing indigenous medical knowledge, uniting tradition, education, and service for the healing of generations to come.
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