NASFAT AT 30: FASHOLA, BABALAKIN, AREGBESOLA ILLUMINATE LANDMARK ANNIVERSARY LECTURE IN LAGOS
The Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT) marked its 30th Anniversary with grandeur, reflection, and forward-thinking dialogue at a landmark public lecture held at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos. Streamed live to over 100,000 online viewers, the celebration brought together some of the nation’s most eminent personalities, Islamic scholars, and thought leaders in an event that was spiritually uplifting and intellectually profound.
The event commenced with a compelling welcome address by the President of NASFAT, Alhaji Ayodeji AbdulWahid AbdulRauf. In his remarks, he highlighted the incredible journey of NASFAT over the past three decades—from a small prayer group to a globally recognized Islamic organization with over 360 locations across Nigeria and in the diaspora. He proudly cited NASFAT’s achievements, including 28 primary schools, 8 secondary schools, 5 healthcare centers, and the establishment of Fountain University, Osogbo.
The President also emphasized the organization’s core values of peace, discipline, and service to humanity. He reiterated NASFAT’s commitment to non-violence, peaceful coexistence, and character-driven leadership. “Our mission is not just about expansion but about moral elevation. Our growth reflects divine favor and disciplined stewardship,” he said.
Following this was the keynote lecture delivered by former Minister of Power, Works and Housing and ex-Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN. In his address titled “Faith, Social Justice and Economic Empowerment: Pathways to a Better World,” Fashola lamented the rising gap between religious profession and moral conduct in Nigeria. He urged faith-based communities to champion ethical leadership and civic virtue, stating, “The real test of religion is not attendance in worship centers but in how we apply its teachings in public and private life.”
On justice, he emphasized that fairness is not a Western ideal but a divine imperative in Islam. He challenged Muslims to be torchbearers of justice, even when it is difficult. Regarding economic empowerment, Fashola called for a shift from tokenism to transformative investment in education, green energy, and digital entrepreneurship. He proposed the creation of a NASFAT Leadership Academy and Women’s Fellowship to empower the next generation of value-driven Muslim leaders.
Dignitaries in attendance included former Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola; legal luminary Dr. Muiz Banire, SAN; and Alhaji Kazeem Adeniji, SAN, who currently serves as the President of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria. The Vice President of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, was represented by Dr. Tope Fasuwa. Also present were representatives of the Lagos and Ogun State Deputy Governors.
The event’s spiritual essence was elevated by NASFAT’s Chief Missioner, Imam Maroofdeen AbdulAzeez Onike, who welcomed scholars such as the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Sulaimon Abou-Nolla, MSSN, ISMUF, The Companion, The Muslim Congress, Sisters of Jannah, Al-Muminat, Faozzan, and Prof. Mash-hud Adenrele Fashola, represented the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at in Nigeria.
The anniversary’s success was orchestrated by the meticulous planning of the 30th Anniversary Committee, ably chaired by Alhaji Kayode Isiak Oshinuga. His leadership was widely praised for its excellence in coordination and delivery.
Anchoring the event were the eloquent Owolabi Oseni, NASFAT’s National Public Relations Secretary, alongside Nymat Akhasat-Zibiri of TVC’s YourView and Kafayat Oyewo of Kiin Media. Together, they brought elegance and vibrancy to a celebration that reaffirmed NASFAT’s pivotal role in shaping a morally just, spiritually sound, and economically empowered Muslim society.
Alhaji Shamsideen Owolabi Oseni
National Public Relations Secretary,
Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society.
May 4, 2025.
