One of Nigeria’s foremost faith-based non-governmental organisations, The Muslim Congress (TMC) has advised the federal government to prioritise four major areas in its ongoing sectorial reform.
The Islamic organisation listed security, education, energy and healthcare as foundational to the progress and stability of the nation.
Speaking at the 28th series of her state-of-the-nation address held on Saturday, 26th October in Lagos, the Amir of the organisation, Alhaji Abdul Wasi’i Bangbala said that the current economic challenges in the country demand responsible leadership.
Muslim News gathered that the state-of-the-nation address was organised by the Committee on Social Mobility, the Economy and Politics, headed by Alhaji Bangbala as the Chairman.
It coincided with the 2024 Annual National Congress of the Society held on Saturday, 26th October, at Da’wah Center, Lagos, with the theme: “Shaping the Future; Leveraging Strategic Plan and Digital Trends”, delivered by Alhaji Modupe Kadri, Chief Finance Officer, CFO, MTN.
It was attended by the national executive, selected states’ chapters, local government and branch executives.
The Amir, TMC congratulated Nigeria on her 64th independence anniversary and called on government at all levels to lead by example, demonstrate fiscal responsibility and prioritise the welfare of the people.
Bangbala, while addressing one of the thematic areas of the statement, titled: “Nigeria at 64: Time to recommit to a brighter future”, maintained that resources must be channelled towards programmes that benefit the citizens.
Speaking further, he called for selfless, integrity-driven governance that puts citizens first.
“As we mark Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary, we reflect on our nation’s remarkable journey, shaped by resilience and hope in the face of adversity. We have faced immense challenges, from a devastating civil war to the uncertainties of military rule, yet we have emerged stronger, united, and democratic. Our diversity is our strength, a blend woven with vibrant threads of culture and heritage.
“Let us not allow this strength to be fractured by the drums of tribalism. Instead, let us embrace our shared hopes and aspirations, working together to build a Nigeria where every citizen can thrive. In this context, it is crucial for the government to communicate effectively with its citizens about the reasons behind its decisions and its efforts to improve the lives of all Nigerians.
The use of local dialects through avenues such as radio, television, town halls, and markets is essential, as the majority of our people do not fully understand the workings of government and how various issues affect governance and the economy. The current administration cannot afford to fail like previous governments in addressing the critical issue of proper communication with the citizenry.
“Moreover, the government must prioritize four key areas: security, education, energy, and healthcare. These sectors are foundational to the progress and stability of our nation.
“The current economic challenges we face demand responsible leadership. Our government must lead by example, demonstrating fiscal responsibility and prioritizing the welfare of its people.
“Our greatest asset remains our people; therefore, we call on all Nigerians to rally together with increased hard work, dedication, and unity. This anniversary calls for a renewed commitment to building a greater Nigeria, a nation where justice prevails, where peace and prosperity flourish, and where every citizen has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
Raises concern over fuel price despite Dangote’s market entrance
The Muslim Congress (TMC) also expressed deep concerns about the ongoing controversy surrounding petroleum pricing in Nigeria.
They lamented that the citizens are yet to get succour despite Dangote Petrochemical Refinery’s recent entrance into Nigeria’s downstream petroleum market.
According to Bangbala, “While welcoming the refinery’s potential to alleviate unaffordable petroleum products, the lack of transparency in pricing and distribution erodes public trust and confidence. Furthermore, the government’s interference in the market undermines the objectives of deregulation and invites monopolistic behaviour.
“This is particularly concerning given the continued inability of the Port Harcourt refinery to come online and operate effectively, further jeopardizing a stable supply of petroleum products. This jeopardizes stable petroleum product supply.
Declares state of emergency on Nigeria’s four refineries
To address this with utmost urgency, TMC charged the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government to declare a state of emergency on Nigeria’s four refineries.
“Protracted turnaround maintenance efforts have proven ineffective; immediate action is, therefore, necessary for domestic refining capacity. Beyond the immediate concerns surrounding the Dangote refinery, we urge the government to conduct a comprehensive review of all existing issues within the petroleum sector, including the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA),” he noted.
Bangbala revealed that a transparent and fair pricing mechanism must be established to ensure affordable and readily available petroleum products for all Nigerians, adding that the process for licensing fuel importers should be streamlined and transparent in order to prevent unnecessary delays and bureaucratic hurdles.
Reviews undue taxes, prioritise welfare of Nigerians
Speaking further, Alhaji Bangbala urged the government to review and address any undue taxes or levies and ensure they do not disproportionately burden consumers.
“We strongly advise that the government prioritizes the welfare of the Nigerian people in all decisions regarding the petroleum sector. The increased revenue generated from deregulation should directly benefit citizens through improved infrastructure, social services, and economic development.
“We believe that a transparent and stable petroleum sector is crucial for the economic prosperity and well-being of all Nigerians. We encourage a united approach among stakeholders to maximize the benefits of deregulation and drive national growth.
FRSC: A call to rethink the firearm proposal
Other issues raised by The Muslim Congress (TMC) include the recent controversial bill that will allow officers of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) to carry firearms while performing their duties; the rising graduate unemployment in Nigeria; boat mishaps, fuel tanker explosions; and one year of Israeli genocidal war in Gaza, among others.
Alhaji Bangbala faulted the controversial FRSC bill which recently passed for second reading at the House of Representatives, calling for a rethink, saying that government at all levels should be more concerned about building a safer society through responsible governance, not through the unnecessary militarization of civilian agencies.
He said, “The proposed amendment to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) Act 2007, seeking to create a special armed squad, is a deeply concerning development. This proposal, despite its seemingly harmless facade, carries significant risks and undermines the core principles of civilian security and good governance. The FRSC’s mandate is clearly defined by law, focusing on road traffic administration, safety management, and public education. Equipping the FRSC with firearms to carry out these functions is not only unnecessary but also potentially dangerous.
“We firmly believe that the police, with their existing presence on federal highways and at checkpoints, are more than capable of providing security assistance to FRSC officials when needed. Furthermore, arming the FRSC would create a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to the proliferation of armed squads within government agencies. We urge the National Assembly to reconsider this proposal and rather prioritize effective delivery of the FRSC’s mandate.
“We believe investing in training, technology, and education on the proper use of public roads by the corps will ultimately contribute to a safer and more secure road network, without the need for firearms.
Gaza genocide: Take decisive steps against Israel
On the massacre of Palestinians on their land by the zionist regime of Israel, The Muslim Congress charged the international community to move beyond mere condemnation and take decisive steps to hold Israel accountable for its actions.
Bangbala said, “As the world marks the sombre anniversary of Israel’s devastating offensive against Palestine, we bring to mind one year of disproportionate aggression against the hapless people of Gaza. This has resulted in the tragic loss of nearly 50,000 Palestinian lives, including a staggering 17,000 innocent children. Schools, hospitals, and critical infrastructure lie in ruins, testaments to the blatant disregard for human life and international law.
The recent assassination of Yahya Sinwar, a leader of the Palestinian resistance, further illustrates the brutality faced by the Palestinian people. This act, along with the relentless air strikes, ground operations, and escalating violence in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon, has rightfully drawn international condemnation and fuelled fears of a wider conflict.
At the heart of this crisis lies a systemic issue within the United Nations framework, particularly regarding the disproportionate sharing of veto power among a select few countries. The United States, wielding its veto as a tool, has repeatedly shielded Israel from accountability, effectively rendering the UN a toothless dog in the face of blatant violations of human rights and international law.
“This abuse of prerogative not only undermines the credibility of the UN but also threatens its very existence as a viable platform for conflict resolution and global governance. If this status quo persists, we risk witnessing a UN that becomes irrelevant, unable to fulfil its mandate of promoting peace and security worldwide,” he noted
TMC further went on to commend Nigeria for its principled stance at the UNGA79, where it bravely condemned Israel’s aggression and called for de-escalation, buttressing that now is the time for Nigeria and all world leaders to translate words into action.
….Celebrates Oloyede, as an icon of exemplary service
The Muslim Congress (TMC) also used the occasion in celebrating Professor Is-haq Olanrewaju Oloyede, describing the JAMB Registrar as an icon of exemplary service, integrity, and commitment to national development.
“Beyond education, Professor Oloyede has fostered inter-religious harmony and promoted Islamic values through his service at NIREC and NSCIA. His exemplary conduct and dedication to Islamic principles have elevated the status of Muslims in Nigeria and fostered positive interfaith relations.
“As we honor this great Nigerian on his 70th birthday, we recognise his invaluable contributions to education, public administration, national development, religious harmony, and the Muslim community. Professor Oloyede’s legacy of excellence and selfless service will continue to inspire generations to come. We wish him many more years of good health, wisdom, and continued service to our nation and the Muslim Ummah.
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