At the 31st Pre-Ramadan Lecture organized by the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni (UMA), leaders from across Nigeria called for unity, moral responsibility, and collective action to address insecurity and societal decay.
The event was held at the J.F. Ade Ajayi Main Auditorium, University of Lagos, Akoka.
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, represented by his Deputy, Umar Usman Kadafur, urged Nigerians to build a society grounded in equity, justice, and mutual respect.
He expressed concern over the growing social challenges facing the country and stressed that everyone must play a role in reversing negative trends.
According to Governor Zulum, Ramadan presents an opportunity for life transformation, not only for Muslims but for society as a whole.
He also encouraged UMA to organize lectures beyond Ramadan to continue addressing societal ills.
Speaking on the importance of civic responsibility, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, reminded the audience that security is everyone’s duty—not just that of government agencies.
He urged Muslims to shun crime and called on parents to instill good values in their children to nurture responsible citizens.
The lecture featured JAMB Registrar, Prof. Is-Haq Oloyede, who addressed the theme, “Muslims: The Challenge of National Security.” Prof. Oloyede described insecurity as a pervasive problem affecting all Nigerians, including Muslims, contrary to misconceptions that they are immune.
He lamented that fear of attacks has disrupted farming, trade, and daily life, and warned against the stereotyping of Muslims as responsible for the nation’s challenges.
Represented by Prof. Olufemi Shuaib, UNILAG Vice Chancellor, Prof. Folashade Ogunsola, described the lecture as more than a yearly event.
She emphasized that it provides Muslims from all walks of life a platform to reflect, unite, and plan for the future of the community and the nation.
She encouraged Muslims to take full advantage of Ramadan as a time for spiritual growth, reminding them that the doors of heaven are open during the holy month.
In his welcome remarks, Dr. Abdulmumin Alao, President of UMA, reiterated the organization’s support for democracy and condemned any attempts to undermine the electoral process.
He called on INEC to continue improving election systems for transparency and fairness. Dr. Alao also highlighted UMA’s scholarship program, which has supported 199 Muslims pursuing postgraduate studies, reinforcing the organization’s commitment to educational empowerment.
The lecture, themed “THE LIGHT BEYOND: GUIDING OUR SOULS TO PARADISE,” concluded with a call for collective responsibility, moral leadership, and the promotion of peace and unity across Nigeria.
