• Islamic perspective on gobal challenges tops agenda
• We’re working to achieve foundational objectives: Amirah
• Alhaji Kunle Sanni says FOMWAN is Nigeria’s most organised Islamic body
The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) held its 39th National Conference in Akure, the Ondo State capital, 21 years after the event last took place in the state.
Speaking at a press conference preceding the inauguration of the nationwide event on Thursday, August 22, 2024, the National Amirah of FOMWAN, Alhaja Rofiat Idowu Sanni, disclosed that the women-led faith-based organisation alternates the venue of its national conference on a yearly basis between the north and the south.
“Our national conferences, which alternate between the North and South, address contemporary issues of both national and international significance. Last year, we convened in Sokoto, and this year, Ondo State has the honor of hosting us once again, 21 years after our last gathering here,” the Amirah said.
Alhaja Rofiat Idowu Sanni noted that FOMWAN has been working tirelessly to achieve the objectives of its establishment 38 years ago.
“The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) was established in October 1985, following an International Conference on Women and Development held in Kano earlier that year. FOMWAN was founded to serve as a voice for women and children, with our efforts centered on five key areas: Da’wah (calling to the way of Allah), Education (both Islamic and Western), Health, Women and Youth Empowerment, and Humanitarian Services/Community Development.
“For the past 38 years, FOMWAN has tirelessly worked to fulfill its objectives. Through our da’wah and educational initiatives, we have witnessed the growth and development of women and the girl child, establishing FOMWAN schools across the nation and providing scholarships to bright but underprivileged students.
“Our health programmes have significantly improved the well-being of our members and their communities, with six operational hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies that stand as a testament to our commitment. Alhamdulillah, our humanitarian services have empowered many women, provided essential resources like water, and offered marital counseling to foster successful family lives.”
According to the FOMWAN leader, these achievements have earned the organisation both national and international recognitions as a true representation of Muslim women and Islam.
“We have been honored with numerous awards in health, education, and human services,” she said.
The national conference, which was held between August 22 and 25 featured scholarly presentations on the Islamic perspective on the current global challenges top the agenda.
“Given the current global challenges, especially regarding security, FOMWAN believes it is crucial for us to gather and learn from our scholars on what Islam teaches us about these issues and how we can align our lives with the guidance of Allah for everlasting peace and security. As it is said, ‘And whoever saves one [life] – it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.’ (Q 5:32),” the Amirah said.
She expressed gratitude to the Governor of Ondo State, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, for hosting the Muslim women, and to the entire people of the state for their hospitality and support.
In his goodwill message, a prominent Muslim leader in Southwest Nigeria, Alhaji Ishaq Kunle Sanni, lauded FOMWAN for its accomplishments so far, noting it is the most organised Islamic organisation in Nigeria.
Alhaji Kunle Sanni said FOMWAN has done a lot Islamic rejuvenation and revitalisation within a few decades.
“For instance, your annual conference is a yearly ritual which you take from one state to the other. Now ask me when last did your father figure SUPREME COUNCIL FOR ISLAMIC AFFAIRS had a conference. Maybe seventeen years ago.
“How many schools are owned by FOMWAN across the Nigerian landscape? You may not be able to count. How many by SUPREME COUNCIL FOR ISLAMIC AFFAIRS? I tell you authoritatively none. Ditto for hospitals and orphanages to name but a few.”
Alhaji Sanni charged FOMWAN to make efforts in bringing female Muslim celebrities to their fold to understand pristine Islam.
“This is what I call the ELITIST ADVOCACY. What do I mean by this? Making efforts to bring celebrities closer to pristine Islam, and it would boost our efforts exponentially,” he said.
He congratulated the Muslim women association on the elevation of Justice Kudirat Kekere-ekun to the position of the Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria.
He encouraged FOMWAN to organise a big reception to celebrate the feat of Justice Kekere-ekun, noting it is a way to motivate the Muslim girl-child.
“I want to congratulate you on the elevation to Chief Justice Alhaja Justice Kudratullah Motomori Olatokunbo Kekereekun, daughter of our late father Alhaji Hassan Adisa Babatunde Fasinro, the first clerk of Lagos State and President of Lagos Muslim Council. Kudirat is a dyed in the wool Muslimat
“I congratulate FOMWAN and entire Ummah that the first female Chief Justice Mariam Alomah is also a Muslimah and alhamdulilah the second one is also directly or indirectly a FOMWAN member. Kindly do a flamboyant reception for her. Let us celebrate our own. It goes a long way to encourage our young Muslim girls to greater heights in their professional careers.”
Beautiful faces at the conference
