* As Solate, MAK, Shareefah Yusuf, others highlight strategies for effective propagation to Islam
By Zulaykha Abodunrin
The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Lagos State Area Unit on Sunday, December 29th, 2024, marked the conclusion of the 114th Islamic Vacation Course (IVC) with a closing ceremony at the Human Capital Development Centre, Naforija, Epe.
In his welcome address, the Amir of MSSN Lagos, Mallam Kamoldeen Abiona highlighted the historical significance of this year’s Islamic Vacation Course (IVC), which began on Tuesday, December 24 and ran through to Monday, December 30, with the theme: “The Message”.
Mal. Abiona explained that this edition was unprecedented, marking the first time all categories of delegates would attend IVC together in a single batch at HCDC, Epe since 2010 when the camp moved to the venue.
“Additionally, it was the first time in years that separate camps were successfully organised for brothers and sisters, with over 5,000 delegates in attendance,” he added, while speaking before thousands of delegates including stakeholders, current and past leadership of the Muslim Students’ body.
Employ reason, logic while calling to Islam: MAK
Giving a keynote address, the Chief Finance Officer, CFO at MTN Nigeria, Modupe Kadri, famously known as MAK, emphasized the importance of compassionate advocacy in Islamic propagation.
He urged the delegates to employ reason and logic while calling others to Islam, drawing lessons from the Prophet Muhammad’s (peace be upon him) approach during the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah.
Muslim News findings revealed during the treaty, which took place in the sixth year after Hijrah (628 CE), an agreement that went against the Muslims was reached with the Quryash in Makkah, but later turned out to be a turning point in the history of Islam.
The Prophet (SAW) showed extreme patience by accepting all the terms as dictated in the treaty. It however turned out to be a great victory for Muslims.
Speaking further, MTN CFO explained that Islamic advocacy isn’t about confrontation or argumentation, adding “It’s about being open-minded and inquisitive. It’s not an ‘us versus them’ narrative; rather, it’s an invitation to the truth, delivered with kindness.”
Kadri encouraged the audience to model the change they wish to see, embodying the principles of Islam in every aspect of their lives.
“Be a role model. Whoever is guided because of you, you will earn the reward equal to theirs,” he said, urging participants to leverage their faith to make meaningful contributions in a secular environment.
Effective Dawah begins with establishing strong connections with others: Solate
Guest lecturer at the event and Managing Director (MD) of Hajj Mabrur Ventures Ltd, Alhaji Abdul Hameed Solate, underscored the vital role of fostering positive relationships, emphasizing that effective Dawah begins with establishing strong connections with others.
“Good relations are the cornerstone of effective and pristine Dawah. This is what the MSSN has always been known for,” said Alhaji Solate.
He highlighted the necessity of cultivating mutual respect and understanding as a foundation for impactful Islamic outreach.
Reflecting on his personal journey, he recounted how the spirit of community and camaraderie at the University of Lagos initially drew him to the MSSN, leaving a lasting impression on his life and faith.
“Glad tidings to the one who Allah has made a key to open goodness for people, to open people’s lives to Islam,” he said.
Scholar highlights strategies for effective Dawah
In his address, Ustadh Sheriffdeen Ibrahim delved deeper into the methods and strategies for effective Dawah (Islamic outreach). He highlighted the critical need for content creation tailored to various platforms, particularly in the digital age.
“We all have smartphones and are on social media but how are you using these platforms to reach people with the message of Islam?
“Social media provides countless opportunities to engage and educate, but we must create relevant, impactful content to fill these spaces.”
Ustadh Sheriffdeen emphasized the importance of understanding the audience and context, advocating for a balanced approach that combines traditional Islamic values with modern tools and strategies.
It’s important to stay true to Islamic principles in public service: Ex-Lagos perm sec
Also speaking at the event, Former TC & Permanent Secretary, Education District 6, Alhaja Shareefah Yusuf emphasized the importance of professionalism, particularly in public service, while staying true to Islamic principles and using them as a force for good. As an MSSN alumna, she praised the society’s efforts and credited her own growth to the training she received during her time with MSSN.
“MSSN made me, and wherever I am, I am proud to say this. We must uphold the teachings of Islam,” she said.
“I congratulate the participants of this camping program. Whatever knowledge you have gained here, ensure you carry it forward.”
…Others who spoke at the formal closing
Another discussant, Ustadh AbdulHakeem Adejokun said, “We can’t practice Islam in isolation. It’s not about ‘me, myself, and I’ alone. In your community, what are you doing to improve or enhance the lives of others? In your local mosque, how are you contributing to further Allah’s cause? How much of yourself are you giving to help others be better, do better, and return to Allah?”
On his part, Life Coach, Ustadh AbdulHakeem Opadijo shifted the conversation to the essence of living a meaningful life. He questioned the value of a life devoid of purpose, impact and contribution.
“A life that is lived without giving or adding value to others is meaningless, purposeless and functionally useless. What is the value of nobility if it doesn’t contribute to the growth of others?” Opadijo asked.
“At our core, we must seek ways to be beneficial to our society. As young Muslims, we must show up confidently, authentically and unapologetically in every area of our lives, especially in circles where we are called to represent our faith.”
Executive Director of the Hijab Rights Advocacy Initiative, Barr. Mutiat Orolu-Balogun enjoined the participants on camp site to raise awareness on injustice wherever they are. She went ahead to share her personal experience on the challenges she faced while seeking admission to study law at the university.
“I faced significant difficulties during the admission process. At a point, I made a heartfelt Dua: ‘Oh Allah, if this field of law is something I can use to serve You, make it happen. If not, grant me something else that will please me. I took it as a sign and a challenge that I made a sincere Dua, and Allah answered it. From that moment, I knew I had a purpose to serve.”
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