President Bola Tinubu, in a message delivered by Ogun State Deputy Governor, Noimot Salako-Oyedele, at the 11th Triennial National Conference of the Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering dedication to forging a nation marked by inclusivity and prosperity, with a particular emphasis on alleviating poverty and revitalizing the Nigerian economy. Tinubu’s message underscored the importance of peaceful coexistence, equity, justice, and compassion as fundamental pillars of a thriving nation. He stressed that the realization of these objectives hinges on collaborative efforts and partnerships with organizations like the Ansar-ud-Deen Society, which are deeply rooted in values and possess a proven track record of community development. He lauded the Society’s century-long contribution to Islamic education and community upliftment, highlighting their instrumental role in establishing educational institutions and healthcare facilities, while simultaneously catering to the spiritual and social well-being of their members.
The President acknowledged the Ansar-ud-Deen Society as a vital cornerstone of Nigeria’s national fabric, commending their effectiveness in nurturing individuals who are not only God-fearing but also intellectually astute and socially responsible. He described the conference’s theme, “Islam and Muslims: Responsibilities and Relevance in a Pluralistic World,” as both timely and intellectually stimulating, particularly in an era characterized by increasing diversity in thought, belief systems, and cultural practices. Tinubu urged Muslims to embody the principles of justice, compassion, and peaceful coexistence, emphasizing the importance of constructive engagement with the broader society while upholding their faith. He viewed the conference as a valuable platform for introspection, the generation of innovative ideas, and the formulation of practical recommendations that could bolster the relevance of Islam in tackling contemporary challenges.
Tinubu’s address specifically highlighted several key areas where the insights from the conference could be particularly impactful, including youth development, fostering moral leadership, implementing educational reforms, and empowering individuals economically. He extended his congratulations to the Ansar-ud-Deen Society, encouraging them to maintain their commitment to their noble endeavors and continue to serve as a unifying force, promoting progress and enlightened citizenship. The President’s message conveyed a clear message of collaboration and the importance of leveraging the collective strength of organizations like the Ansar-ud-Deen Society to address the nation’s multifaceted challenges and build a brighter future for all Nigerians.
Dr. Abdulrafiu Sanni, the National President of the Ansar-ud-Deen Society, in his remarks, characterized the conference as a vital opportunity to reflect on the society’s accomplishments, evaluate prevailing challenges, and chart a strategic course for the future. He reiterated the society’s steadfast commitment to educational advancement, moral upbringing, and national unity, emphasizing their readiness to collaborate with government bodies, traditional institutions, and religious organizations to address pressing issues such as youth empowerment, social justice, and economic development. Dr. Sanni urged all conference participants to engage in deliberations guided by principles of mutual respect, inclusivity, and a shared vision for a prosperous Nigeria.
The overarching message of the conference resonated with the importance of interfaith dialogue, cooperation, and the shared responsibility of all Nigerians in building a nation that reflects the principles of peace, justice, and prosperity. The presence of dignitaries like the former High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafadeen Ishola, JAMB Registrar, Professor Ishaq Oloyode, and Professor Mustapha Arikewuyo, further underscored the significance of the event and the collective commitment to fostering unity and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians of all faiths. Their calls for oneness and peaceful coexistence echoed the President’s message and reinforced the importance of working together to overcome the nation’s challenges.
The convergence of these prominent figures, alongside members of the Ansar-ud-Deen Society, created a powerful platform for discussing the role of faith-based organizations in national development and charting a path towards a more inclusive and harmonious society. The conference served not only as a celebration of the Ansar-ud-Deen Society’s contributions but also as a call to action for all Nigerians to embrace the values of peace, unity, and mutual respect in the pursuit of a shared vision for a prosperous and equitable nation. The emphasis on youth empowerment, educational advancement, and economic development highlighted the importance of investing in the future of Nigeria and empowering its citizens to contribute meaningfully to national growth and progress.
