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  • Nigerians’ resilience weakened by poor governance, oil dependence, says MUSWEN president

    Nigerians’ resilience weakened by poor governance, oil dependence, says MUSWEN president

    The President of the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN), Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, has said that Nigerians’ ability to withstand economic and social shocks has been severely weakened by poor governance, overdependence on oil revenue and weak institutions.

    Alhaji Oladejo stated this on Thursday, during the Formal Opening of the Guild of Muslim Professionals (GMP) Convention at AM2PM Hotel, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State.

    Represented by the Deputy President II, MUSWEN, Alhaji Thabit Wale Sonaike, Alhaji Oladejo, said the country ranks among the least resilient nations in Africa and warned that without deliberate reforms and morally grounded leadership, sustainable development will remain elusive.

    The convention, themed “Resilient Professionals, Resilient Nation,” brought together Muslim professionals, scholars and industry leaders to examine Nigeria’s economic fragility and the role of faith-driven professionalism in national renewal.

    Alhaji Oladejo said Nigeria’s heavy reliance on oil and gas, which accounts for up to 90 per cent of foreign exchange earnings and about half of government revenue, has exposed the economy to volatility. 

    He added that infrastructure deficits, insecurity, high poverty levels and rising debt have further eroded national resilience.

    According to him, Nigeria’s per capita GDP declined by an average of 0.7 per cent annually between 2014 and 2023, while inflation exceeded 40 per cent in 2024, worsening hardship for citizens. 

    “Although recent reforms such as foreign exchange liberalisation and fuel subsidy removal have improved access to forex and strengthened reserves, electricity shortages, food insecurity and widespread poverty remain major challenges,” he said.

    The MUSWEN president identified poverty reduction, fiscal discipline and increased domestic revenue as key priorities, stressing that poverty cannot be addressed through quick fixes. 

    He stressed the need for a resilient workforce, describing skilled, adaptable and ethically grounded workers as critical to national stability.

    He called for targeted reskilling in digital technology, artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, alongside flexible work models and strong mental health support. 

    According to him, such measures would help Nigerian professionals remain productive during crises and contribute to long-term growth.

    Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman, Board of Trustees of GMP and Chief Executive Officer of Marble Limited, Dr Akeem Oyewale, urged Muslim professionals to see resilience as a moral and spiritual obligation. 

    He said professionals must act as pillars of integrity within weak systems, guided by Islamic values of accountability, justice and excellence.

    According to him, resilience rooted in faith requires ethical restraint, diligence and stewardship, even when institutions fail. 

    He urged Muslim professionals to strengthen, rather than undermine, the organisations they serve, noting that national stability depends largely on individual conduct.

    The keynote speaker, Sheikh Muhammad Mahmoud, in his lecture “Ihsan in Islam” stressed that constant awareness of Allah’s presence fosters ethical behaviour, calmness and excellence (Ihsan). 

    He said when professionals internalise divine accountability, integrity becomes natural in both public and private life.

    The scholar urged participants to embed spiritual mindfulness into daily routines using simple habits, such as brief moments of reflection supported by technology, while stressing the importance of proper mentorship and adherence to established Islamic teachings.

    The Director of Executive Education and Consultancy, Nungu Business School by Dr. Jubril Salaudeen, Dr. Jubril Salaudeen, said Muslim professionals must take deliberate responsibility for Nigeria’s economic and social development.and warned that silence and poor coordination have weakened their influence in national affairs.

    Read Also: Adeboye, wife extend Christmas blessings to Nigerians

    He noted that despite their presence across key sectors, Muslim professionals face identity, of representation and contribution gaps, worsened by the absence of reliable data on their population, sectoral spread and leadership positions. 

    According to him, this data gap makes effective planning, impact assessment and succession difficult.

    Dr Salaudeen said Muslim professionals remain largely in middle management, with limited representation at top levels in sectors such as banking and law, a trend he described as a threat to long-term influence.

    He called for intentional mentorship and advocacy to move qualified professionals into leadership rather than waiting for chance.

    He decried discrimination against Muslim women in the workplace, recounting cases where qualified candidates were excluded due to wearing the hijab. 

    He said empowering Muslim women professionally would strengthen household incomes and boost national economic outcomes.

    Dr. Salaudeen urged the GMP to adopt sustained mentorship and leadership development plans spanning five to 10 years, strengthen collaboration between Muslim professionals in public and private sectors, and promote responsible public engagement to improve community image and national relevance.

  • MUSWEN hails Jimoh’s emergence as professionals’ president

    MUSWEN hails Jimoh’s emergence as professionals’ president

    The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) has congratulated Imam Nojeem Jimoh on his election as the new National Amir (President) of The Companion, an association of Muslim men in business and the professions.

    Imam Jimoh’s emergence as the new leader of The Companion was announced during its three-day National Conference, which was concluded on Saturday in Ilorin, Kwara State.

    MUSWEN, in a message jointly signed by its President Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo and Executive Secretary Prof Muslih Tayo Yahya, said: “Imam Jimoh, the Chief Imam of the Lighthouse Muslim Community in Lekki and a respected member of the Daw’ah Committee of the Lekki Central Mosque (LEMU), brings a wealth of experience and leadership to his new role.

    Read Also: Abuja Original inhabitants: Nigeria urged to ratify ILO Convention on indigenous people

    “ Having previously served as the National Naibul-Amir, his dedication to the advancement of Islamic values and community development is well-documented. A retired oil and gas executive and former Chief Operating Officer of Taurus Oil & Gas Ltd, Imam Jimoh’s professional expertise and commitment to faith-based leadership make him an exemplary choice to steer The Companion for the next two years.

    “MUSWEN commends The Companion for its transparent process in electing Imam Jimoh and expresses confidence in his ability to lead the organization to greater heights. His track record of service, both within the Muslim community and in the professional sphere, reflects the qualities of integrity, wisdom, and compassion needed to foster unity and progress.

    “We pray that Almighty Allah grants Imam Jimoh the strength, guidance, and wisdom to discharge his duties effectively and to uphold the noble objectives of The Companion.

    “ Once again, congratulations to Imam Jimoh. May his tenure be marked by success, unity, and impactful initiatives that promote the values of Islam and the welfare of the Ummah.”

  • MUSWEN urges Nigerians to emulate Buhari’s lifestyle

    MUSWEN urges Nigerians to emulate Buhari’s lifestyle

    • Says Oba Adetona was a reformer

    The Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) has urged Nigerians to reflect on the values of unity, integrity, and selfless service that defined the life of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari.

    The umbrella body for Muslims in the southwest also has described the late Awujale of Ijebuland, Oba Sikiru Adetona, as a reformer monarch who balanced culture and tradition with Islamic values.

    MUSWEN in statements signed by its President, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, and Executive Secretary, Prof Muslih Tayo Yahya, said the late Buhari was “a statesman whose dedication to Nigeria’s unity, security, and development left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. As a devout Muslim, he exemplified humility and service, values that resonate deeply with the Muslim Ummah and Nigerians at large.”

    Read Also: FG pledges to uphold Buhari’s legacy as Shettima, Sambo, others pay tribute in Daura

    MUSWEN recalled that “President Buhari’s tenure as Nigeria’s leader was characterized by commitment to tackling corruption, strengthening national security, and fostering economic reforms. His integrity, simplicity, and steadfast leadership inspired millions and earned him respect across diverse divides. “In recognition of his immense contributions to Nigeria, MUSWEN respectfully calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to immortalize the legacy of former President Buhari. We propose that the federal government consider naming significant national infrastructure, institutions, or initiatives after him to honor his service and ensure that future generations draw inspiration from his life of discipline and patriotism.” According to MUSWEN, Oba Adetona, who was the President of the Ogun Muslim Council and leader of all Muslim Obas in Yorubaland, was not only a revered traditional ruler but also a tireless advocate for the rights of traditional rulers to be buried according to their religious beliefs. “His efforts culminated in the enactment of the Obas and Chiefs Laws of Ogun State 2021, which respects the dignity and faith of traditional rulers in matters of burial rites. This landmark achievement ensures that traditional rulers, regardless of their faith, can be laid to rest in a manner that honors their personal convictions. As a Muslim, Oba Adetona’s commitment to Islamic values was evident in his life and work.

    “He was a custodian of Yoruba culture who understood the importance of balancing tradition with faith. His legacy will continue to guide us in promoting harmony between cultural heritage and religious principles.”

  • Hijrah: MUSWEN, ADSN, MCLS urge unity among Nigerians

    Hijrah: MUSWEN, ADSN, MCLS urge unity among Nigerians

    As Muslims mark the beginning of Hijrah 1447 AH, prominent Islamic organisations—the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN), the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, and the Muslim Community of Lagos State (MCLS), have called on Nigerians to rededicate themselves to unity, peaceful coexistence, and the socio-economic advancement of the nation.

    In their separate New Year messages on Thursday, the groups urged citizens, regardless of religious affiliation, to work together in building a just, equitable, and inclusive society.

    MUSWEN, in a joint statement signed by its President, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, and Executive Secretary, Prof. Muslih ‘Tayo Yahya, encouraged Nigerians to embrace mutual respect and justice while praying for global peace and prosperity.

    They also called on Muslims across the country and beyond to seek divine guidance and offer prayers for Nigeria’s peace, progress, and stability amid ongoing challenges such as insecurity, economic hardship, and global unrest.

    The groups emphasized the significance of Hijrah as a time for reflection, spiritual renewal, and renewed commitment to values that promote national growth and unity.

    “We urge leaders at all levels—religious, political, and traditional—to embody the spirit of compassion and justice in their actions. In these challenging times, leadership rooted in empathy and fairness is essential for fostering peace, progress, and unity in our society,” MUSWEN said.

    Read Also: Muslims urge Lagos Govt to declare Hijrah Holiday

    MCLS President, Alhaji Muhammed Danmole, advised Muslims to “purify our intentions, strengthen our bonds of brotherhood, uphold peace, and contribute positively to our communities. We also pray for continued guidance, protection, and mercy from Allah upon our state, our leaders, our families, and the entire Ummah.

    “The Hijrah reminds us of the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering faith of the Prophet Muhammad and his companions as they migrated for the sake of preserving their religion. It is a time for reflection, renewal of faith, and a recommitment to living by the principles of Islam: justice, compassion, truthfulness, and unity.”

    ADSN National President, Prince Mosediq Kazeem, SAN, said: “Today, as we ponder and reflect on the significance of Hijrah, we cannot ignore the numerous trials facing our nation and our world – rising insecurity, economic hardship, unemployment, hunger, and the pervasive sense of uncertainty, particularly among our youths.

    “Let this new Islamic year be a moment of renewed intention – to strengthen our connection with Allah, to serve our communities, and to uphold the noble values of Islam: justice, mercy, brotherhood, and sincere reliance on Allah.

    “We call upon our leaders to prioritise justice, good governance, and equitable policies that alleviate poverty, create employment opportunities, and promote lasting peace.”

    The organization hailed the Federal Government’s initiative to transform Federal Science Colleges into Vocational Technical Institutions with free tuition- a meaningful step towards empowering our youth and addressing unemployment.

  • MUSWEN’s train in Ile-Ife

    MUSWEN’s train in Ile-Ife

    Preamble

    It was another day of history, last Friday, at Ile-Ife, Osun State. The actively mobile train of the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) moved to the ancient city that is the cradle of Yoruba nation.

    The delegation was led by the President of MUSWEN, His Excellency, Dr. Sakariyahu O. Babalola, OON, who is also the Deputy President General (South) of Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA). On his entourage was a galaxy of who is who from all the six states of the Southwest. These included MUSWEN’s BOT Chairman, His Eminence, Justice (Prince) Bola Ajibola SAN (retd), KBE, LLD, D. LITT who was represented by Alhaji S. O. Aweda and the Executive Secretary of MUSWEN, Professor Daud O. S. Noibi, OBE, D. Sc.

    Others were the Chairman, MUSWEN’s Finance Committee, Alhaji Rafiu Ebiti FCA, (from Lagos); the Chairman, MUSWEN’s Task Force, Barr. Y. K. O. Kareem (from Lagos); the Chairman, MUSWEN’s Education Committee, Professor M. O. Opeloye (of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife); the acting Chairman, Osun State’s Muslim Community, Alh. Mustapha Olawuyi; the former Chairman, Ekiti State’s Muslim Community, Alh. S. Afolabi Ogunlayi; the Chairman, MUSWEN’s 2017 General Assembly Planning Committee, Dr. Wole Abbas (of the University of Ibadan). Also on the entourage were the National President, National Council of Muslim Youth Associations (NACOMYO), Alh. Kamal Akintunde (from Ogun State); the Chief Imam, Ife Central Mosque, Sheikh Abdus-Sami’ Abdul Hamid and a host of others.

     

    Mission

    The mission of that visit was to pay a sympathy and solidarity visit to the people and residents of that city over the recent fortuitous crisis that pitched the Yoruba residents of the city against their Hausa counterparts. Coming unexpectedly, the sad incident held the nation spellbound.

    MUSWEN’s first point of call in the city was the palace of His Royal Majesty, Oba Kayode Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, the Ooni of Ife, where the delegation was received with the grandeur of customary royalty and uniqueness of Yoruba traditional hospitality.

     

    MUSWEN president’s speech

    Below is an excerpt from the speech delivered by the President of MUSWEN who led the delegation of prominent Muslims from the six states of the Southwest of Nigeria:

    “Your Majesty, first, on behalf of the leadership of the Muslim Community in the Southwest region, under the auspices of the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN), I want to congratulate you on your ascension to this great throne.

    We had planned last year to pay a courtesy call on Your Majesty after your coronation, but owing to some unavoidable circumstances, the plan could not materialise.

     

    Peaceful coexistence

    Your Majesty, we are glad that Allah has chosen you to occupy this majestic office at this particular time. Your efforts to promote peaceful coexistence among the peoples of the Southwest region and beyond are widely acknowledged. Indeed, within this short period of your ascension to the throne, you have earned your place of honour as a global ambassador of peace.

    Incidentally, this is what Islam teaches as accentuated in the Qur’an thus:

    “O mankind! We (Allah) created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know (and interact positively with) one another. Verily the most honourable among you in the sight of Allah are the most righteous of you. Allah has full knowledge and He is well acquainted (with all things).”[Qur’an 49:13]

    In Islam, home is wherever a Muslim finds himself. Islam neither makes a distinction among people on the basis of ethnicity nor elevates any race or tribe above another. Rather, Islam treats as sacred the life of every human being.

     

    The recent crisis

    Your Majesty, against this background, we were greatly alarmed on learning of the recent disturbances within this ancient city that has all along provided a peaceful home for indigenes, settlers and foreigners alike. However, we were greatly relieved by your words of assurances and  actions in providing the much-needed balm with which to calm the unwarranted tension thereby  preventing the crisis from escalating. Your royal action in the circumstance especially your call for forgiveness rather than retaliation and your strong words of caution to those who wanted to give the sad incident unnecessary ethnic and religious colouration further confirmed your standing as a model of the well-cherished ‘omoluwabi’ values.

    This extraordinary display of grace is in concomitance with Qur’anic characterisation of believers as:

    “Those who control their wrath and are forgiving toward mankind; Allah loves those who do good” [Qur’an 3:134]

     

    Commiseration

    Your Majesty, on behalf of all Muslims in the Southwest region, we commiserate with you and all the good people of Ile-Ife on the recent crisis. We pray Allah to grant you more wisdom and courage to do what is right, just and fair at all times.

    I want to use this opportunity to appeal to all Muslims and indeed all the people of Ile-Ife, the Southwest region and Nigeria to choose the path of peace in the interest of all as no people or nation can develop in the absence of peace.

    We must also remember, at all times, that we are all citizens of the same country and brothers and sisters in humanity. As members of the human race, we all are indigenes and settlers, once and at the same time depending where we find ourselves individually or collectively.

    While praying the Almighty Allah to grant us sustained peace here in Ile-Ife, in Yoruba land, in Nigeria the entire world, I wish to thank Your Majesty for granting us audience and royal hospitality despite the short notice of this visit. May your reign continue to be peaceful and prosperous”.

    Ile-Ife Muslim Community

    After leaving the palace, the delegation also paid a visit to the city’s Muslim community at the Central Mosque where Jum’at service was jointly observed and peace prayer was collectively offered to the nation. Thereafter, the delegation proceeded to pay a similar visit to the Hausa Community in its Sabo settlement where the Sarkin Hausawa with his chieftains and other Hausa residents received the MUSWEN delegation. Each group expressed delight over MUSWEN’s visit and gesture.

     

     In retrospect

    Last Friday was not the first time that the topmost echelon of Nigerian Muslim Ummah paid a courtesy visit to Ile-Ife. The President-General of Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affiars (NSCIA) and Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, had severally paid similar visits to Ile-Ife in the recent past. On one of such occasions, His Eminence drew the attention of all and sundry to the symbiotic relationship between the Hausa community of Northern Nigeria and their Yoruba counterpart of the Southwest. Yours sincerely was on the entourage of His Eminence on every occasion he visited Ile-Ife and below is an excerpt from an article I wrote in this column on a particular occasion:

     

    Confluence of cultures

    It was a confluence of cultures at Ile-Ife, Osun State where a galaxy of Nigerian juggernauts assembled on the invitation of that ancient city’s monarch the late Ooni of Ife, His Royal Majesty, Oba Okunade Sijuwade. The Sultan and a retinue of Emirs from the north, the Obi of Onitsha and several Ezes from the East and the South-South as well as a galaxy of Obas and Chieftains from the Southwest were all present in full regalia. The venue was Oduduwa Hall, Obafemi Awolowo University (OOU). The State’s Governor, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola, was not represented as the chief host at that occasion. He was personally present. Some other Southwest Governors who could not afford to come were ably represented by their Deputies.

    The occasion was for the public presentation of a book on the history of Ile-Ife, Yoruba monarchs and their domains.

    Apparently, the Ooni invited those great Nigerians to the event not much for the purpose of the book presentation as for the symbolic national unity which Nigeria needs very much as a country.

     

    Sultan’s speech

    What interested the column called ‘THE MESSAGE’ most on that occasion, was the speech delivered by His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto and President General of NSCIA. It went thus:

    “…Let me start by expressing my deep gratitude to the Ooni of Ife for his kind invitation and several reminders to attend this undoubtedly great occasion. I am particularly glad to be here not just to listen and learn, but also to witness an epoch in the history of the Yoruba people. I come from a culture and tradition that has great respect for books and which places a high premium on learning. As many of you may have known the founders of the Sokoto Caliphate together wrote over three hundred books and tracts. I therefore feel very comfortable with both the occasion and the location”.

     

    Components of identity

    “The history of a people represents a key component of their identity. It brings out their origin, their exploits and their relations with other peoples and delineates their culture and values. We have a lot to learn from our pre-colonial history, particularly the appreciation of those values and precepts that inform the frame of mind of the majority of our people. Our post-colonial democratic institutions will do well to take into account these values which still dominate our socio-cultural environment.

    Your Excellencies, your Royal Highnesses, Distinguished Guests, please join me in congratulating the book’s author, Prince Adelegan Adegbola, a renowned Journalist, who has been widely acknowledged as a Custodian of the history and culture of the Yoruba people, for his hard work and dedication, in coming up with this masterful work. We commend him most sincerely and we earnestly call upon other writers and intellectuals to emulate the worthy example of Prince Adelegan Adegbola and to bring to light more of the hidden treasures of our history and culture”.

     

    Dissemination of knowledge

    “Distinguished guests, the history and culture of our people, precious as they are, must not be left as the preserve of the elders. We must endeavour to disseminate this knowledge especially among the younger generations. It is in connection with this important task that I wish to call upon the Federal Government, especially our educational agencies, to re-introduce the teaching of history as a compulsory subject in our Primary and Junior Secondary Schools. A situation whereby the majority of our school age population is totally disconnected from its past, and the cultural norms and values it embodies, is not only counter-productive but portends great danger to the development of the country. Our future leaders must be imbued with a clear understanding of the history of our diverse peoples, their character and identity and the value systems which mediated their societal life. We can only ignore this vital aspect of nation-building at our own peril”.

     

    Inter-relationship

    “…We must also understand our history as the record of our collective struggle to interact with one another, and to understand and accommodate one another. The ancient State of Katsina for example, because of these dynamic interactions, was aware of the developments in Yoruba land as early as the seventeenth century. One of its most erudite scholars, Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Umar Al- Kashnawi, popularly known as Dan Masani, who died in 1667, wrote a book which he entitled ‘The History of Yoruba Land’, under the Arabic title of Azhar al-Ruba fi Akhbar Yuruba. Unfortunately, that book is now presumed lost. Similarly, the Nupes and several other peoples also interacted actively and for several centuries with Yoruba land, thereby producing a complex web of relationship which subsists up till today. The point being   raised is that the interaction and the inter-relationship between our various peoples were not created by Lord Lugard in 1914. It goes much deeper. We must re-enforce these sturdy historical foundations if we wish to build a virile nation”.

     

    Triumph of history

    “Finally, I wish to state that the triumph of history and its attendant glories, should always serve to strengthen of our efforts in uniting our people and in bringing peace and harmony. We must strive to acknowledge the universality of our common humanity and the favours which God Almighty has bountifully bestowed on us. We must always remember the noble words of the Holy Qur’an when it says:

    “O Mankind, we created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes that you may know oneanother (not that you may despise one another). Verily, the most honoured of you in the sight of Allah is he who is most righteous. And Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things) [Qur’an 49:13].

     

    From the hind view

    “From the available records, Islam is more than a millennium old in West Africa. From isolated Muslim communities in the 9th century to the trading entry ports of the 10th century, Islam grew by leaps and bounds. However, it was not until the 11th century that it began to emerge as a State Religion. According to Al-Bakri, a historian of the region, it was the Kingdom of Takrur which first acquired this status followed by the Kingdom of Kanem under the Syfawas.

    “By the 12th century, Ghana had become Islamized while Mali emerged in the 14th century only to be taken over by Songhai which hosted the Sankore University in Timbuktu in the 16th century. Sankore University was the first University in Sub-Saharan Africa. The Islamization of Hausa States of Northern Nigeria began in earnest from the second half of the 14th century”.

     

    Islam in west africa

    “The establishment of Islam in West Africa had always been predicated on multi-ethnic and multi-racial basis. Merchants and traders came from different parts of the world, including Morocco, Tripoli, Yemen, Iraq and Egypt. Scholars also came from those countries bringing various Islamic intellectual traditions which interacted and enriched local ones. These traditions flourished and helped to sustain veritable centers of learning including the famous Universities of Timbuktu and Birni Gazargamo as well as similar institutions in Kano, Katsina, Zaria and other Hausa States.

    “The emergence of the Sokoto Caliphate in the early years of the 19th century, led by the erudite scholar, Shaykh Uthman Ibn Fodio brought a dramatic transformation of the Islamic scene in West Africa. The Sokoto Caliphate was a political as well as an intellectual revolution. Politically, it initiated an extensive process of state formation which spanned across several states in Western and Central Africa. The political legacies of the Sokoto Caliphate could be found in present day Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger, Chad and the Republic of Cameroon.

     

    Sokoto caliphate

    “Intellectually, the Caliphate also succeeded in putting scholars at the helm of public affairs. And as true intellectuals, they had to argue their way through almost every major decision they took and had the time and the foresight to record their thoughts, ideas and justification of their actions for posterity. The Sokoto Triumvirate, namely: Shaykh Uthman Ibn Fodio, Shaykh Abdullah Ibn Fodio and Shaykh Muhammad Bello authored over 300 books and pamphlets. Other Caliphate leaders were also prolific writers (despite the enormous state responsibility with which they were saddled). Nana Asma’u (a woman) alone wrote over 70 poems and tracts.

    “But despite these achievements, probably one of the Caliphate’s most enduring legacies had been in the areas of values. Next to this is primacy of Justice as the basis of good governance. Shaykh Uthman Ibn Fodio was emphatic on this when he said: “Seeing to welfare of the people is more effective than the use of force…. And the crown of the leader is his integrity while impartiality is his strong hold even as his wealth is the prosperity of his people”.

    From the above, it is evident that human life is like a building, the foundation of which is solid education, the structure of which is value-based culture and the roof of which is Justice. These three are closely interrelated. And whoever toils with them toils with life. Can anybody fault that?

  • MUSWEN prays for President Buhari

    The Muslim Ummah of Southwest Nigeria (MUSWEN), has offered prayers for President Muhammadu Buhari, his government and the nation.

    The prayer was held during its 13th Regular Meeting at Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, by its Central Working Committee (CWC).

    The CWC comprise of Muslim Communities/Councils of the six states of the Southwest, the major Muslim organisations domiciled in the region including Muslim women and youth organisations.

    The group thanked to Allah for responding to the prayers of Nigerians and bringing back the President in improved health.

    A statement by its Executive Secretary Prof Dawud Noibi, MUSWEN expressed profound faith in the fact that the span of life of a person is not determined by the wishes or claims of detractors by but by Allah’s decree, urging President Buhari and Nigerians to put trust in Allah and ignore the whispers of rumour mongers.

    The religious leaders also thanked Allah for giving the country and the armed forces victory over the Boko Haram menace and beseeched Him to complete the victory not only over the misguided insurgents but also over all other forms of threat to the security, unity and progress of the nation.

    They also prayed that the remaining Chibok girls be brought back safely.

    They hailed the Vice President, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, for holding the forth for President Buhari so diligently over the period of the President’s absence.

    “Members took the advantage of the occasion to express condolences to the family of the former military governor of the old Western Region of Nigeria, Major General Adeyinka Adebayo (rtd) as well as the people of Ekiti State and the Southest on the occasion of his death. They pray that Allah grants his family and the nation the fortitude to bear the loss,” the statement said.

  • MUSWEN, MSSN call for transparency

    MUSWEN, MSSN call for transparency

    The Muslim Ummah of the South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) and Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Lagos State Area Unit have urged Nigerian leaders to be transparent and accountable in governance.

    MUSWEN thanked Allah for “enabling us to see its (Ramadan) end alive with good health and peaceful coexistence.

    It urged Muslims to remember the social and spiritual gains of the sacred month and fulfil their covenant with Allah.

    “We should remember to pay our mandatory Zakatul-Fitr and be kind to the less privileged ones in our celebrations. Such celebrations should exemplify the remorse and humility we imbibed in the sacred month of Ramadan. We urge our Imams in all Mosques to pray specially at the Eid grounds today for peace and tranquillity in Nigeria,” MUSWEN said.

    MSSN Amir (President) Mallam Saheed Ashafa, said Nigeria would witness tremendous growth if both leaders and followers were ready to sacrifice for the country.

    He said: “In the spirit of celebration, it is important not to forget the essence of Eid-el Fitri, among which is sacrifice. If all and sundry adhere to the teachings and virtues of Eid-el Fitri, Nigeria won’t be in its pitiable state today.

    “We assert that today is another day for both leaders and followers in the country to assess how our actions and inactions have benefited or ruin our country. Like Prophet Muhammad, we must be accountable and transparent in our dealings. Apart from being accountable on earth, we must also prepare for questioning in the hereafter.

    “If our leaders have been accountable from inception, we will not find ourselves in a situation where many states cannot pay salaries without borrowing. It saddening that many workers are still being owed and will be constrained to celebrating Eid-il Fitri as they really wished.”

  • MUSWEN’s Second General Assembly

    MUSWEN’s Second General Assembly

    And hold fast to the cord of Allah and do not be disunited. And remember the Mercy of Allah upon you when you became adversaries to one another and Allah saved you from falling into the quagmire of Hell by reconciling your hearts with love. That is Allah’s way of illustrating His signs to you that you may be grateful”. Q. 3: 103   

     

    Preamble

    This article was meant for publication in this column on Friday, April 29, 2016. That was about five days after the second General Assembly of the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) was held on Sunday, April 24, 2016.

    That the article was not published as scheduled was not the fault of yours sincerely.

    The venue of the General Assembly was the International Conference Centre of the University of Ibadan. More than 350 delegates, including the Chairmen and Secretaries of the six States’ Muslim Councils/Communities in the Southwest and a sizable number of prominent guests from the region were in attendance.

     

    Roll Call

    The Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency Senator Ishak Abiola Ajimobi, was ably represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Ishmael Lekan Ali.

    A onetime World Court Judge and Nigeria’s former Minister of Justice, His Excellency, Prince Abdul Jabbar Bola Ajibola, who is also the Chairman of MUSWEN’s Board of Trustees was present.

    Also, a former Inspector-General of Nigeria Police, Alhaji Musliu Smith and a former Minister of State for Agriculture, Alhaji Najeem Awodele were among the prominent personalities present at the occasion.

    Among other prominent personalities present were a former Deputy Director-General of the Stock Exchange, Alhaji Rasak Oladejo, a onetime President of the Institute of Chartered Accounts of Nigeria (ICAN), Otunba Sulaiman Owoyemi and the President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas of the Southwest, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello as well as the Secretary-General of the League, Sheikh Ahmad Aladesawe.

    Also present were a retinue of professors, including T. G. O. Gbadamosi, Lateef Hussein, SHA Malik, AF Ahmad, M. O. Abdul Rahman, K. K. Oloso, Taoheed Adedoja and others too many to be listed here.

    There were others like the Chief Imam of Ibadan, Sheikh Abdul Ganiyyi Ajigbotomokekere as well as Baba Isale Adini of Ibadan, Alhaji Lateef Oyelade.

    It was not all an men affair as some frontline Muslim women in the region were conspicuously present.

    These include Iya Adinni of Yoruba land, Alhaja Sekinat Adekola, Dr. (Mrs.) Lateefah Durosinmi (a former national Amirah of FOMWAN), Alhaja Surura Oyero, the current National PRO of FOMWAN; Alhaja Simiat Ogundiran, the Amirah of FOMWAN, Oyo State, Alhaja Faosat Aliu, Amirah of FOMWAN, Ondo State; Alhaja Medina Akanni, Amirah of Criterion, Oyo State; Alhaja Rafat Momoh, a former Amirah of MUSWEN, Ondo State and many others that cannot be accommodated here.

     

    Opening Remark

    In his opening remark at the occasion, the Executive Secretary of MUSWEN, Prof D. O. S. Noibi gave a brief situation report of MUSWEN’s first General Assembly held in 2015 and the secretariat activities sequel to that event.

    He also relayed the various MUSWEN’s achievements in the year ending and seized the opportunity to project the expected achievements in the year ahead.

    The Chairman of the GA’s 23 member Planning Committee was Professor Muhib O. Opeloye while the Secretary was Alh. Tajudeen Alabede, the Assistant Director, Programmes and Corporate Services of MUSWEN

     

    Life like weather

    Life is like weather. It changes posture from season to season. If the weather is too hot in summer, let no hope be lost. A clement weather may be experienced in winter. There is no weather without effect. Nigerians are currently in an uncertain economic weather in which nothing is predictable with precision.

    This was the situation that influenced the theme of MUSWEN’s second General Assembly held penultimate Sunday. That theme was ‘Zakah and Poverty Alleviation’.

    Nigerian Muslims have been perennially facing two fundamental problems. One is poverty, the other is ignorance. A solution to one can automatically proffer a solution to the other. But the failure on the parts of the concerned stakeholders to search for any solution at all has consistently remained a spectre tormenting the faith of most Muslims day and night.

     

    The president’s welcome address

    In his welcome address, at the occasion, the President of MUSWEN, His Excellency, Dr. Sakariyau Olayiwola Babalola OON said inter alia that:

    “….Despite the fact that we are operating in a particularly difficult time in the nation’s history, MUSWEN has recorded a number of accomplishments since our last General Assembly, especially with efforts that were geared towards deepening and widening relations with stakeholders within the Ummah both within and outside the region”.

    “With effective coordination by the Secretariat, the active collaboration of the other organs of MUSWEN and the State Councils/Communities as well as the critical support of other stakeholders, it is heart-warming that MUSWEN has continued to serve as the rallying point for Muslims in the region”.

     

    State of the Nation

    Talking about the state of the nation as at the time of the General Assembly, the President of MUSWEN said:

    “It is especially significant that inspite of the fears that we all had early last year, Allah helped us to survive the negative predictions about the 2015 general elections…. There is no gain saying the fact that our dear nation, Nigeria, is passing through a difficult time. In the last few years, the socio-economic climate has been tough. People are daily faced with hard choices. Insecurity, corruption and poor economy have continued to plague the nation”.

    “It is gratifying, however, that the Federal Government under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari is making frantic efforts to get Nigeria out of the woods.

    The battle against insurgency in the Northeast is giving Nigerians the hope that, in not too distant future, that part of the country would regain its peace that was shattered some years back”.

    “A sad development arising from the dastardly act of insurgency was the abduction of over 200 school girls in Chibok, Borno State.

    It is worrisome that for over two years now, the Chibok girls have remained in bondage. I, therefore, appeal to the Federal Government to do all it could to ensure the safe return of the girls to their families. But more importantly, let us fervently pray to Allah for the safety and return of the girls”.

    “In the same vein, the fight against corruption could not have come at a better time. Given the amount of information about the level of corruption that Nigeria had sunk into, one can only say that we are really fortunate that Nigeria is now on its way back to sanity and global respect.

    To this end, the President and his team need the support and prayers of all well-meaning Nigerians, including Muslims, as they strive to reset the nation on the path to progress and greatness”.

     

    State of the Region

    Appraising the situation of the Southwest region, Alhaji Babalola made the following observation:

    “The Southwest region of Nigeria is blessed by Allah with abundant human and natural resources. What’s more, the region is noted for setting the pace in matters of progress and development. It is not for nothing that this region is home to Nigerians from diverse backgrounds who seek means and ways to fortune and personal progress….”

    “While I must acknowledge the challenges faced by the state governments in the region in their desire to develop the region, our people have no reason to be poor.

    I, on behalf of Muslim stakeholders in the region, therefore, wish to use this opportunity to appeal to our political leaders in the region to pool their resources together and make genuine effort to revamp and integrate the economies of the states for the greater glory of the region and our people”.

    He continued thus: “In the same vein, I am delighted about the atmosphere of peace and religious harmony that continues to exist among our people irrespective of their religious affiliations. This is a tradition that has earned the Southwest region the respect of other people. However, experience has shown that more still needs to be done.

    Of particular significance is the need for more accommodation of Muslims in the political structure of Ekiti State. Muslims in the state deserve a better deal. The principles of equity, fairness and inclusive leadership need to be adequately respected in multi-stakeholder settings like ours”.

    And in conclusion, the President of MUSWEN said: “I must not end this address without recognising the critical support of the State Councils/Communities, the League of Imams and Alfas, major Muslim title holders, Islamic organisations and other stakeholders whose sustained commitment has continued to make the idea of MUSWEN a pleasant reality: “K’ajo kan l’awa nse” (to be one united body is our objective)”.

     

    The BOT Chairman

    In his own remark, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT),  Prince  ‘Abdul Jabbaar Bola Ajibola, SAN, KBE, CFR, LLD, DLitt, FNIALS, after welcoming the delegates and guests to the second General Assembly, commended the Presidency of MUSWEN for cooperating with the Board of Trustees in working for unity, welfare and progress of the Muslim Ummah saying:

    ”As the custodians of the shared values of our organisation, the BOT has followed with keen interest and a sense of satisfaction the various indicators of progress in MUSWEN since the last General Assembly.

    The BOT is  particularly glad to note that MUSWEN has been successful in reaching out to an increasing number of corporate and individual stakeholders within the Ummah and beyond.

    There is no doubt about the fact that this is surely the best way to further strengthen the organisation for the benefit of the Ummah.

     

    Deputy President-General of NSCIA

    The support of the stakeholders to the BOT in the course of consultations on the nomination of a new candidate for the position of Deputy President-General (South) of NSCIA is particularly commendable.

    This Second Assembly should, therefore, be regarded as an opportunity for us to resolve to build on the successes recorded so far in this and other regards. The various organs of NSCIA should, on the other hand, resolve not to rest on their oars but to do more for the benefit of the apex body.

     

    About the theme

    In view of the importance of the theme of the Second Assembly – Zakah and Poverty Alleviation – the BOT wishes to commend all of those who have been supporting MUSWEN financially, believing that Allah will continue to reward them most richly in fulfilment of His promise. It is my hope that the theme will deepen our collective consciousness to support the cause of Islam financially for the general good of the Ummah.

     

    Keynote Address

    The Keynote address was delivered by yours sincerely on the neglected pillar of Islam called Zakah vis a vis the overwhelming poverty threatening the lives of majority of Nigerian Muslims. The contents of that address as well as the general report of the Central Working Committee of MUSWEN and that of the first General Assembly held in 2015 cannot be brought here because they are too lengthy to be accommodated in a one page article. There is hope that both and some other related issues, will be published in this column in a foreseeable future.

  • MUSWEN’s Second General Assembly

    MUSWEN’s Second General Assembly

    Hold fast the cord of Allah and do not be disunited. And remember the Mercy of Allah upon you when you became adversaries to one another and Allah saved you from falling into the quagmire of Hell by reconciling your hearts with love. That is Allah’s way of illustrating His signs to you that you may be grateful”. Q. 3: 103 

     

    Preamble 

    This article was meant for publication in this column penultimate Sunday, April 24, 2016. That was the day the second General Assembly of the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) was held. The venue was the University of Ibadan International Conference Hall. More than 350 delegates and a sizable number of prominent guests from the six States of the South West were in attendance.

     

    Attendance 

    The Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Senator Ishak Abiola Ajimobi, was  represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Alhaji Ishmael Lekan Ali. A former Minister of Justice and World Court Judge, His Excellency, Prince Abdul Jabbar Bola Ajibola, who is the Chairman of MUSWEN’s Board of Trustees as well as a former Inspector-General of Nigeria Police, Alhaji Musliu Smith were among the prominent personalities present at the occasion.

    Also present were a former Minister of Agriculture, Alhaji Najeem Awodele, former Deputy Director-General of the Stock Exchange, Alhaji Rasak Oladejo, a onetime President of the Institute of Chartered Accounts of Nigeria (ICAN), Otunba Sulaiman Owoyemi and the President-General of the League of Imams and Alfas, Sheikh Jamiu Kewulere Bello as well as the Secretary-General of the League, Sheikh Ahmad Aladesawe.

    Also present were a retinue of Professors, including T. G. O. Gbadamosi, Lateef Hussein, Saeed Malik, M. O. Abdul Rahman, K. K. Oloso and others too many to be listed here, Others were the Chief Imam of Ibadan Land, Sheikh Abdul Ganiyyi Ajigbotomo kekere and Iya Adini of Yoruba, Alhaja Sekinat Adekola as well as Baba Isale Adini of Ibadan Land, Alhaji Lateef Oyelade.

    The Chairman of the GA’s Planning Committee was Professor Muheeb O. Opeloye while the Secretary was Alh. Tajudeen Alabede, the Assistant Director, Programmes and Corporate Services of MUSWEN

     

    Life like weather

    Life is like weather. It changes posture from season to season. If the weather is too hot in summer, let no hope be lost. A clement weather may be experienced in winter. There is no weather without effect. Nigerians are currently in an uncertain economic weather in which nothing is predictable with precision. This was the situation that influenced the theme of MUSWEN’s second General Assembly held penultimate Sunday. That theme was ‘Zakah and Poverty Alleviation’.

    Nigerian Muslims have been perennially facing two fundamental problems. One is poverty, the other is ignorance. A solution to one can automatically proffer a solution to the other. But the failure on the parts of the concerned stakeholders to search for any solution at all has consistently remained a spectre chasing the ghost of every Muslim day and night.

     

    President’s welcome address

    In his welcome address, at the occasion, the President of MUSWEN, His Excellency, Dr. Sakariyau Olayiwola Babalola (OON), said inter alia that:

    “….Despite the fact that we are operating in a particularly difficult time in the nation’s history, MUSWEN has recorded a number of accomplishments since our last General Assembly especially with efforts that were geared towards deepening and widening relations with stakeholders within the Ummah both within and outside the region”.

    “With effective coordination by the Secretariat, the active collaboration of the other organs of MUSWEN and the State Councils/Communities as well as the critical support of other stakeholders, it is heart-warming that MUSWEN has continued to serve as the rallying point for Muslims in the region”.

     

    Components of MUSWEN

    “The result of this has been the improved and growing relationship with the State Councils/Communities who are the major components of MUSWEN; the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) of which MUSWEN is a major component; the League of Imams and Alfas, which MUSWEN recognizes as an essential pillar of the Ummah; the numerous Islamic organizations and other stakeholders.

    Of particular significance is the high degree of trust that the Sultan of Sokoto and President-General of  the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Sa‘ad Abubakar, CFR, mni, reposes in MUSWEN and its leadership”.

     

    State of the nation

    Talking about the State of the nation as at the time of the General Assembly, the President of MUSWEN said:

    “It is especially significant that in spite of the fears that we all had early last year, Allah helped us to survive the negative predictions about the 2015 general elections…. There is no gain saying the fact that our dear nation, Nigeria, is passing through a difficult time. In the last few years, the socio-economic climate has been tough. People are daily faced with hard choices. Insecurity, corruption and poor economy have continued to plague the nation”.

    “It is gratifying, however, that the Federal Government under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari is making frantic efforts to get Nigeria out of the woods. The battle against insurgency in the Northeast is giving Nigerians the hope that, in not too distant future, that part of the country would regain its peace that was shattered some years back”.

    “A sad development arising from the dastardly act of insurgency was the abduction of over 200 school girls in Chibok, Borno State.

    It is worrisome that for over two years now, the Chibok girls have remained in bondage. I, therefore, appeal to the Federal Government to do all it could to ensure the safe return of the girls to their families. But more importantly, let us fervently pray to Allah for the safety and return of the girls”.

    “In the same vein, the fight against corruption could not have come at a better time. Given the amount of information about the level of corruption that Nigeria had sunk into, one can only say that we are really fortunate that Nigeria is now on its way back to sanity and global respect. To this end, the President and his team need the support and prayers of all well-meaning Nigerians, including Muslims, as they strive to reset the nation on the path to progress and greatness”.

     

    State of the region 

    Appraising the situation of the South West region, Alhaji Babalola made the following observation:

    “The Southwest region of Nigeria is blessed by Allah with abundant human and natural resources. What’s more, the region is noted for setting the pace in matters of progress and development. It is not for nothing that this region is home to Nigerians from diverse backgrounds who seek means and ways to fortune and personal progress….”

    “While I must acknowledge the challenges faced by the state governments in the region in their desire to develop the region, our people have no reason to be poor. I, on behalf of Muslim stakeholders in the region, therefore, wish to use this opportunity to appeal to our political leaders in the region to pull their resources together and make genuine effort to revamp and integrate the economies of the States for the greater glory of the region and our people”.

    He continued thus: “In the same vein, I am delighted about the atmosphere of peace and religious harmony that continues to exist among our people irrespective of their religious affiliations. This is a tradition that has earned the South West region the respect of other people. However, experience has shown that more still needs to be done. Of particular significance is the need for more accommodation of Muslims in the political structure of Ekiti State. Muslims in the State deserve a better deal. The principles of equity, fairness and inclusive leadership need to be adequately respected in multi-stakeholder settings like ours”.

    And in conclusion, the President of MUSWEN said: “I must not end this address without recognising the critical support of the State Councils/Communities, the League of Imams and Alfas, major Muslim title holders, Islamic organisations and other stakeholders whose sustained commitment has continued to make the idea of MUSWEN a pleasant reality: “K’ajo kan l’awa nse” (to be one united body is our objective)”.

     

    The BOT Chairman

    In his own remark, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BOT), His Excellency, Prince (Judge) ‘Abdul Jabbaar Bola Ajibola, SAN, KBE, CFR, LLD, DLitt, FICArb, FNIALS, after welcoming the delegates and guests to the second General Assembly, commended the Presidency of MUSWEN for cooperating with the Board of Trustees in working for unity, welfare and progress of the Muslim Ummah saying:

    ”As the custodians of the shared values of our organisation, the BOT has followed with keen interest and a sense of satisfaction the various indicators of progress in MUSWEN since the last General Assembly. The BOT is   Particularly glad to note that MUSWEN has been successful in reaching out to an increasing number of corporate and individual stakeholders within the Ummah and beyond. There is no doubt about the fact that this is surely the best way to further strengthen the organization for the benefit of the Ummah.

     

    About Deputy President-General of NSCIA

    The support of the stakeholders to the BOT in the course of consultations on the nomination of a new candidate for the position of Deputy President-General (South) of NSCIA is particularly commendable.

    This Second Assembly should, therefore, be regarded as an opportunity for us to resolve to build on the successes recorded so far in this and other regards. The various organs of NSCIA should, on the other hand, resolve not to rest on their oars but to do more for the benefit of the apex body.

     

    About the theme

    In view of the importance of the theme of the Second Assembly – Zakah and Poverty Alleviation – the BOT wishes to commend all of those who have been supporting MUSWEN financially, believing that Allah will continue to reward them most richly in fulfilment of His promise. It is my hope that the theme will deepen our collective consciousness to support the cause of Islam financially for the general good of the Ummah.

     

    Keynote address

    The keynote address was delivered by yours sincerely on the neglected pillar of Islam called Zakah vis a vis the glaring overwhelming poverty threatening the lives of majority of Nigerian Muslims.

    The contents of that address as well as the general report of the Central Working Committee of MUSWEN and that of the first General Assembly held in 2015 cannot be brought here because they are too lengthy to be accommodated in a one page article.

    There is hope that both and some other related issues, will be published in this column in a foreseeable future.

  • MUSWEN’s Foundation for Ibadan quintuplets

    MUSWEN’s Foundation for Ibadan quintuplets

    Is it they (human beings) who would share out the mercy of Allah (to others)? It is We (Allah) who share the possession of those bounties among them as their means of livelihood in this temporal world. And it is our duty to elevate some of them over others in ranks and in statuses. So that some of them can be masters while others are servants. Definitely, the blessings apportioned to you by your Lord are by far better than those which the ignorant ones are struggling to amass” Q.43:32   

     

    Preamble

    Human life in the midst of other creatures is a paradox. And the paradox is due to the reasoning faculty with which man is endowed.

    However, rather than using that exclusive grace to gratify Allah for honouring him with leadership and control of the environment, man seems to have turned that endowment into an instrument of competition with Allah.

    But for the undeniable reality of death as the main determiner of the limit of life, man would have proclaimed himself God.

    Unfortunately for him, however, death is not an attribute of God. Thus, it is impossible for anybody who might have tasted or can taste death to be God. No living organism, animate or inanimate, has ever escaped the dragnet of death and none can ever do. That shows one of the manifest distinctions between the Creator and the creatures. As humans, our passage through this ephemeral world is a mere transit just as our imagination of God is far from the reality of His being. We only live to die as against feature of God who neither sleeps nor dies.

     

    Breaking News

    On Monday, February 15, 2016, virtually all Nigerian local electronic media throbbed with the news of the birth of a set of quintuplets at the University of Ibadan College Hospital (UCH), the first of its type in Nigeria (Quintuplets are five children born at once by the same woman). Within a few hours, the news reverberated across the continents of the world through the cable network and newspapers.

    The mother of the bountiful gifts, Mrs. Shakirah Razaq Yusuf, a woman in purdah, is a 28-year-old wife of an Ibadan born Alfa by the name Abdur-Razaq Yusuf Ewenje. Both the wife and her husband are of very humble backgrounds who are forced to live an ascetic life by virtual penury. That confirms the promise of Allah in Qur’an 42 verse 50 thus:

    “To Allah belongs the kingdom of the heavens and the earth. He creates whatever He wills. He bestows female children upon whoever He wills and bestows male children upon whoever He wills. And He bestows both male and female children upon whoever He wills even as He renders whoever He wills a barren. Verily, Allah is all-knowing and capable of doing all things”

    Madam Shakirah and her husband had had two children before the birth of the quintuplets. Their immediate reaction to the birth of those unexpected quintuplets was one of dilemma and confusion.

    Yes, they prayed for safe birth of a healthy child or children from Allah, but they never dreamt of such unimaginable Allah’s blessing that came to be too much of a divine largess.

    Thus, the gift that would have ordinarily brought an aura of joy immediately turned into a mixture of threat and fear. How to settle the hospital bill and how to feed and clad the quintuplets as well as the older two children that became a foremost matter of concern for the couple.The children have since been named. The three boys are named Ahmad, Muhammad and Mustapha respectively. The girls were named Hamidah and Hamdalat.

     

    Other quintuplets

    In the olden days, bearing more than one child was perceived as a demonic aberration which some people considered as a taboo. Thus, children like twins, triplets and others were seen as a shame to the family which must be disposed of immediately.

    Such children were therefore secretly killed or openly offered as sacrifice to the then gods. This situation was not peculiar to Africa. It was global. With education and advancement of civilisation however, the world came to realise that birth of multiple children was rather a blessing than an aberration.

    In modern times, the first publicised quintuplets were reportedly born on April 29, 1896 in the United States of America. Called the Lyon quintuplets, they were the first American quintuplets born alive. The last survivor among them died on May 14, 1896 barely two weeks after birth.

    Later on, in 1934, another set of quintuplets was born in Ontario, Canada. The children were all girls and identical. Born to the family of Dionne, this set was known to be the first quintuplets to survive to adulthood.

    Many other quintuplets have since been born in different parts of the world with various traits and characteristics. But the lack of records about them does not help their exposure through the mass media.

     

    Paradox of Life

    Of all treasures in the life of man, there is one that cannot be legitimately purchased with money. That treasure is children.

    Children are a special natural gift from Allah that cannot be replaced or exchanged with any commodity or chattel. Those who have the stupendous means of caring for children may not have the grace of bearing children.

    Those who have no means of nurturing children may be divinely favoured to bear them in abundance. The paradox is evident in the case of the Yusuf family that is now grappling with a dilemma and confusion over the upbringing of the quintuplets with which it is blessed.

    A Yoruba musician once succinctly captured this situation in a rhythmic and captivating song that vividly described the value of children thus:

    “No moneybag can legitimately purchase them; no royal fiat can fetch them legitimately without the will of Allah; which commodity on earth can be likened to children? Is there anything that is comparable to children in human life?

    “Children are the ultimate treasure whose value cannot be measured in terms of diamond, gold or silver; they (children) are like a sharp sword in the capable hand of a strong warrior; they (children) are owned at early age but they grow up into adulthood to own almost everything  that can be purchased….”

     

    MUSWEN @ UCH

    Moved by the milk of humanity and kindness, as usual, last Sunday, the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) paid a purposeful visit of joy and glorification of Allah to UCH.

    The objective was to rejoice with the family of Alfa Yusuf Ewenje whose wife delivered a quintuplet penultimate Monday. Three of the children were males while two were females. All the children were said to be responding very well to medical care and pediatric nurture.

    The news of these Allah’s wonderful bounties had been in the media for some days as it was the first time that UCH, in its 59 years, of existence, was having an airy but joyful feeling of such a divine gesture.

    While holding its Central Working Committee (CWC) meeting in Ibadan last Sunday, MUSWEN decided to establish a foundation for the upkeep and education of the quintuplets to the University level. Thus, led by its President, His Excellency, Alhaji (Dr.) Sakariyau Olayiwola Babalola OON, a team of MUSWEN representatives broke out of the meeting to pay a visit to the quintuplets in appreciation of Allah’s bounties and in assuring the poor parents of the Ummah’s support and solidarity.

    After seeing the condition of the quintuplets and their parents, the President of MUSWEN announced a foundation in the name of MUSWEN to see the five children’s education through the University. This means that MUSWEN has taken up the finance of the children’s education from the primary school level to the University degree level.

    MUSWEN President also made an instant personal donation of a handsome amount to the couple and prayed for the survival of the children and Allah’s wherewithal to enable the couple take proper care of them.

    Alhaji Babalola then called on all goodhearted Nigerians to join hands with MUSWEN in maintaining the proposed foundation for the well-being of the quintuplets.

    Meanwhile,a special bank account has been earmarked for the foundation pending the inauguration of a committee of trusted people who will manage it. Those who are interested in lifting their brother’s load and tilling the holy land may request for the account details. God bless you all!

     

    Variety of motives

    Before MUSWEN’s visit, quite a number of individuals and groups (Muslims and non-Muslims), had rushed to see the quintuplets at UCH with different motives.

    Some had been there to adopt some of those children; some had cunningly attempted outright purchase of the children while some others had seen that divine gesture as an opportunity for undue evangelism.

    But as the umbrella body and ultimate mouthpiece for all Muslim individuals and Organisations in the South West, MUSWEN decided to act promptly not only to save the young couple of any embarrassment (financial or psychological) but also to give a sense of spiritual coverage to the concerned family.

    This further confirms the fatherly role imbibed by MUSWEN as a responsible umbrella of the Muslim Ummah in South West region. Bravo! God bless MUSWEN.

     

    UCH’s gesture

    Contrary to the general impression about UCH by members of the public, the famous teaching hospital displayed a unique gesture.

    Following the naming of the quintuplets at the children’s ward of the hospital last Monday (February 22, 2016), the authorities of the UCH announced a free medical and pediatric treatment for the mother.

    According to the announcement made by the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of UCH, Mr. Deji Bobade, the authorities of UCH decided write off the bill incurred by the poor couple as their own contribution to humanity.

    They thus returned the amount so far deposited for medical care and treatment of the children saying the outstanding balance would not be collected from the poor couple. Thus, the quintuplets would remain in the custody of the hospital at no cost until the children are mature enough to be discharged.

    This humanitarian gesture is highly appreciated and commended by Nigerian public who see it as a new dawn in UCH’s administration.

     

    Brief History of UCH

    The idea of establishing a teaching hospital for a proposed University in Nigeria was first nursed in 1943 by the colonial government which set up a commission headed by Sir Walter Elliot.

    The Commission consisted of 14 members three of whom represented the British West African colonies. They were Reverend I. O. Ransome-Kuti of Nigeria, K. A. Korsah of the Gold Coast (Ghana) and E. H. Taylor of Sierra Leone. Soon, another Commission of 11 members was set up to complement the one headed by Elliot and to determine the principles that would guide the proposed higher educational institutions in Nigeria. The latter Commission was led by Mr. Justice Cyril Asquith. Following the submission of reports by the two Commissions in 1945,

    The University College, Ibadan was established on November 17, 1948 with three founding faculties; Arts, Science and Medicine. Although the  construction of the four and a half million pound sterling (£4.5m) Teaching Hospital had not been completed in 1956 when Queen Elizabeth II visited Nigeria, she nevertheless commissioned it in anticipation of its completion in 1957. Thus, the UCH was officially opened on November 20, 1957 with its imposing architectural masterpiece to the delight of all and sundry.

     

    Today’s situation

    Today, however, while the UCH remains an intimidating architectural edifice, the needed services therein remain a sorry case due to lack of befitting maintenance. Most of the equipment have become antiquated even as the necessary modern facilities are not provided. It is unbelievable that the eight-storey structures in that hospital are without functioning lifts.

    On inquiry, yours sincerely learned that only two lifts are available for use in the entire complex of the 800-bed hospital out of which only one is functioning haphazardly.

    Even the only lift said to be functioning is worse than a bakery oven. A rechargeable table fan has to be put inside the lift not as a relief from a possible effect of suffocation but as a mere decoration to show the members of the public that ‘we care’.

    The implication of this is that patients who may be rushed to that hospital on emergency who need to be conveyed to upper floors for immediate medical attention may face terrible difficulty in reaching their destination within the complex.

    The appalling situation of UCH requires an urgent attention of the Federal Ministry of Health. This once great institution was one of the best four Teaching Hospitals in the Commonwealth. Today, it is probably the worst. In such an environment, it is even difficult for the medical personnel to function as expected. Nigeria deserves a better place to be called a Teaching Hospital for our country’s Premier University.