The Criterion, an association of Muslim women in business and the professions, has reiterated its call for holistic empowerment of Muslim women through education, ethical parenting, and access to technology, in a bid to address rising societal ills and foster national development.
In a communiqué issued at the end of its five-day 13th National and 4th International Conference held at Orchid Hotel, Lagos, from November 12 to 16, 2025, the association emphasized the pivotal role women play in shaping morally upright and God-fearing generations.
According to the communiqué jointly signed by its International Amirah, Hajia Medinat Olufunke Akanni, Esq, and the Chairperson of the International Conference Planning Committee, Hajia (ESV) Ibironke Siddqah Ogun (FNIVS), the association urged Muslim women to remain committed to nurturing responsible children, saying it as a foundational solution to the moral and social challenges confronting society.
Hajia Olufunke Akanni, Esq, on behalf of The Criterion, also stressed the importance of empowering women to leverage technology to improve their economic status. 
She noted that access to digital tools and platforms would not only enhance personal growth but also enable women to contribute meaningfully to family stability and national progress.
Muslim News gathered that the communique also addressed other major issues including education where the association sought deliberate efforts to increase the participation of women and girls in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
It noted that such efforts should be pursued in a manner that aligns with moral, spiritual, and economic upliftment, thereby preserving family values while fostering advancement.
The International Amirah further urged parents and educational institutions to teach the ethical use of modern technology, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. It argued that responsible digital behaviour is vital for shaping conscientious citizens and promoting sustainable nation-building.
She also appealed to the government at all levels to provide affordable and accessible internet, particularly in rural secondary schools, stressing that consistent access to technology in education is essential to bridge the urban-rural digital divide and ensure inclusive growth.
Reaffirming its commitment, The Criterion pledged to continue supporting the spiritual, educational, and socio-economic advancement of Muslim women while making impactful contributions to national development.
The five-day event featured a series of impactful programmes, including a formal opening ceremony graced by prominent Muslim personalities from various professions, including the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat.
While declaring the conference open, Dr Hamzat encouraged Muslim women to keep breaking societal barriers while preserving their vital roles in raising morally upright future generations.
The opening ceremony was co-chaired by Barrister (Ustaz) Dhikrullah Olakunle Hassan, former Chairman/CEO of the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), and Distinguished Senator Idiat Oluranti Adebule, former Deputy Governor of Lagos State.
In her welcome address, the International Ameerah of The Criterion, Hajia Medinat Olufunke Akanni, reaffirmed the association’s unwavering commitment to empowering women, children, and other vulnerable members of society through education, spirituality, and socio-economic initiatives.
Delivering the keynote address, Professor Olayinka Ramota Karim, Vice Chancellor of Fountain University, Osogbo, who was represented by Alhaja Suwebat Kupolati, former World Women Affairs Secretary of NASFAT highlighted the leadership roles of women as nurturers, scholars, and reformers, positions which are today amplified further by leveraging on technology and education. 
Also speaking, Dr. Ridwan Jamiu, Chief Imam of the Lekki Muslim Community Mosque (LEMU), stressed the shared responsibility of parenting and its importance in raising responsible, God-conscious citizens.
The conference featured several thematic sessions. One of the highlights was a presentation by Dr. Shakirudeen Olayiwola Onasanya, a retired Permanent Secretary in Lagos State, who advocated for Muslim women’s active participation in agriculture, noting that the sector holds opportunities beyond land cultivation.
As part of efforts to invest in the next generation, a special Youth Development session was held, where secondary school students were encouraged to embrace technology and innovation for academic excellence and career growth.
The Criterion’s 2025 conference successfully combined inspiration, advocacy, and practical recommendations to position Muslim women for greater impact, while reinforcing the association’s vision of moral, educational, and economic upliftment in line with Islamic values.
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