… Govt should tackle insecurity – Lagos PHF
The National Headquarters of Pure Heart Islamic Foundation (PHF) has urged Nigerians to focus on values that unite them as a nation at a time division, tribalism and sectarianism are becoming more prevalent.
The foundation said it is only through unity that Nigeria can truly achieve the socio-political and economic progress that all citizens desire.
This is contained in a press release issued by the National Coordinator of the Foundation, Ibrahim Ola Balogun, on Tuesday, 1st October 2024 in commemoration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day Anniversary.
Pure Heart Islamic Foundation said it joins Nigerians, at home and in diaspora, to reflect on the journey travelled so far as a nation.
“Since 1960, our country has faced its share of challenges— such as civil war, military coups, political instability, and economic recession—and triumphs, including post-civil war restoration, a return to democracy, and some level of economic growth.
“Through it all, Muslim youths have made significant contributions to the nation’s development. From leadership to community development, education, and entrepreneurship, Muslim youths have played a key role in shaping Nigeria. Guided by the teachings of Islam, which emphasize justice, service, and compassion, we have been part of the fabric that holds this nation together.
“At a time when division, tribalism, and sectarianism are becoming more prevalent, we urge Nigerians, especially the teeming youths, to focus on the values that unite us as a nation. Islam teaches the importance of peace, tolerance, and working together for the common good.
“We encourage all Nigerians, regardless of religion or ethnicity, to commit to building bridges of understanding and fostering peaceful coexistence. A united Nigeria will not only be a giant in Africa but also globally, and only through unity can we truly achieve the socio-political and economic progress we all desire,” the statement read.
Balogun said the PHF is aware of the ongoing challenges in the country, calling on government at all levels to adopt more humane economic policies.
“Today, as we mark 64 years of Nigeria’s independence, we call on government at all levels to adopt more humane economic policies focused on lifting people out of poverty and promoting social justice. Just as zakat in Islam encourages us to share our wealth with the needy, we believe the government can implement similar systems to ensure that no Nigerian is left behind. Now more than ever, we need policies that prioritize the well-being of the people, not just economic statistics and data.
“For Nigeria to truly achieve greater economic growth and take its rightful place among developed and respected nations, the government must invest in the future of our children, youths, and communities. Education and healthcare are at the heart of this. Every home, no matter where they reside within the country, should have access to quality education and healthcare services without worrying about the cost.
“We call on the government to reform these essential services and ensure they are accessible to all. As a Foundation, we are committed to supporting initiatives that improve education and healthcare because we know that a healthy, educated population is key to long-term success.”
The foundation lauded the Nigerian government’s consistent support for the Palestinian cause, noting Vice President Kashim Shettima’s speech at the recent United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) speaks to the core of justice.
It added that the Palestinian struggle is a humanitarian issue, calling on leaders around the world to rise in support of peace.
“We equally applaud the Nigerian government’s steadfast support for the Palestinian cause, as highlighted by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the recently concluded UN General Assembly. His heartfelt call that Palestine deserves independence speaks to the core of what justice means in today’s world.
“In these difficult times, as war in the Gaza, West Bank and Lebanon continues to claim thousands of innocent lives, including youths, children, and women, we urge leaders around the globe to rise in support of peace. This is not just a political issue; it’s a humanitarian one. We must do everything we can to de-escalate the crisis, protect the vulnerable, and ensure the suffering ends.
“Now more than ever, our collective voice is needed to call for peace and justice, defend the rights of Palestinians, and support stability in the entire Middle East.”
… Govt should tackle insecurity – Lagos PHF
In a separate release, the Lagos State Coordinator of Pure Heart Islamic Foundation, Dr. Shakirudeen Taiwo, also congratulated Nigerians on the independence anniversary.
He charged the government to tackle the deterioration of national security, noting further efforts are necessary despite the gains recorded recently.
“Our economy is experiencing significant turmoil, and our national unity is becoming increasingly precarious. Government across all levels must confront the deterioration of national security and identity, the fragility of political order, and the affliction of oil dependency. While we recognise the recent achievements in addressing insecurity, further efforts are necessary.
“Moreover, the government must address the issue of corruption, which is leading to a decline in worldwide influence. We must pursue judicial reform, and strengthen the security sector to establish a more robust and stable Nigeria,” the release said.
Dr. Taiwo restated the commitment of Pure Heart Islamic Foundation to strengthen marginalised people and foster sustainable development.
He said a Nigeria that is genuinely autonomous in both spirit and deed can be achieved through collective efforts.
