Daud Olatunji
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has lauded the Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria as a historic and critical force in nation-building, calling on the group to deepen its partnership with government in addressing Nigeria’s social and economic challenges.
Delivering his message at the opening of the society’s 11th Triennial National Conference held in Abeokuta, President Tinubu, represented by Ogun State Deputy Governor, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said the enduring impact of Ansar-ud-Deen on Islamic education, moral empowerment, and community development has made it a “pillar of our national fabric.”
“For over a century, the Ansar-ud-Deen Society has championed the cause of Islamic education and community development in Nigeria,” the President said.
“From the establishment of schools and health centres to supporting the spiritual and social needs of its members, your impact is visible across generations—particularly in your ability to nurture God-fearing, intellectually sound, and socially responsible individuals.”
While describing the conference theme—“Islam and Muslims: Responsibilities and Relevance in a Pluralistic World”—as timely, Tinubu called on Muslims to balance strong faith with broader civic engagement.
“In a world increasingly characterized by diversity of thought, belief, and culture, Muslims must continue to be ambassadors of justice, compassion, and peaceful coexistence,” he added.
The President further emphasized that his administration’s Renewed Hope agenda is aimed at building “a more inclusive, secure, and prosperous Nigeria,” but warned that such goals cannot be achieved without the involvement of credible and value-driven faith-based institutions.
“These goals cannot be achieved without the support and partnerships of credible, value-driven organizations like the Ansar-ud-Deen Society,” he said.
“I urge you to remain steadfast in your noble pursuits and continue to serve as a force for unity, progress, and enlightened citizenship.”
In a keynote lecture, Professor Mustapha Olalekan Arikewuyo highlighted the role of Muslims in fostering peaceful coexistence in a pluralistic society.
“We must all respect the rights and dignity of others, irrespective of their background or faith,” he said, adding that Muslims also have a duty to promote civic participation and cultural exchange.
Supporting this view, the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, Professor Ishaq Oloyede, charged members of the society to “tolerate one another, be good ambassadors, and embrace peace and harmony.”
Earlier in his welcome remarks, the National President of the Ansar-ud-Deen Society, Dr. Abdul-Rafiu Ademola Sanni, said the triennial gathering was not only an avenue for reflection but a commitment to deepening the society’s work in education, moral reawakening, social justice, and economic empowerment.
“This conference serves as a platform to reflect on our achievements, assess our challenges, and strategize for the future,” Dr. Sanni said.
“Our focus remains unwavering—towards educational advancement, moral upliftment, and the pursuit of social justice.”
The event also featured special prayers for the society, the President, Ogun State, and Nigeria as a whole.
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