22nd December, 2023
By Victoria Oluwayemi
The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has advocated for a shift from mere complaints to active participation in solving national issues.
Speaking at the Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria Centenary Dinner held at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Sheraton Ikeja, Hamzat emphasized the importance of providing solutions as a means to collectively build a better Nigeria.
Highlighting that constructive action, rather than complaints, is the cornerstone of nation-building, Hamzat urged individuals to tackle problems and focus on the country’s progress.
Drawing from Islamic teachings, he emphasized the responsibility of Muslims as problem solvers, stressing the need to address challenges collectively.
Moreover, he stressed the significance of sharing the essence of Islam, calling on Muslims to enlighten non-Muslims about the religion’s beauty to foster peace, unity, and religious tolerance.
“The gift and beauty of Islam has not been shared, we don’t even share it among ourselves not to talk of sharing it with outsiders”.
He referenced the open practice of Islam in Bahrain as an example, suggesting that inclusivity is pivotal for societal unity.
He then asked, “how do we come together as a people if we are not united”?
The President of Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Aare Dr. Abdul Rafiu Ademola Sanni, lauded the society’s century-long contributions, particularly in expanding educational institutions across Nigeria and beyond.
He added that the society can boast of the increased spread of primary and post-primary Schools across Nigeria, a feat, he said, has culminated in the establishment of Summit University in 2016, and its grant of Permanent Operational License in 2019.
He reiterated the society’s commitment to upholding its vision and ensuring enhanced service delivery for the next century.
Sanni stated, “since the establishment of our society in 1923, we have continued to have successive generations of Ansars, who have taken it as a point of responsibility to keep the flag flying, and raising the ‘bar’ of performance to date”.
“Equally we have also witnessed the increased spread of the society’s presence not only in Nigeria but across selected West African States, Europe and North America”.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Occasion, Mr. Fola Adeola congratulated and rejoiced with the Society on the Centenary celebration describing it as a great achievement for Muslims in the country.
During the event, recognition awards were presented to families of founding members, distinguished individuals, and corporate bodies for their significant contributions to the development of Ansar-ud-Deen over the last century.
