Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan
The Muslim Community of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has held its maiden Ramadan Lecture, urging Muslims to reflect on the lessons of the holy month and demonstrate stronger commitment to the teachings of Islam.
The event, held at the Dapo Aderogba Hall of the NUJ Press Centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan, brought together Muslim journalists, neighbours and other regular worshippers who observe congregational prayers at the NUJ Central mosque.
The gathering attracted notable personalities including the Chairman of the NUJ Oyo State Council, Mr. Akeem Abas, the immediate past chairman of the council, Mr. Demola Babalola, and a veteran journalist, Alhaji Kola Animashaun, who served as the chairman of the occasion.
Also present at the lecture were a House of Representatives hopeful and retired General Manager of Radio Nigeria’s Premier FM, Alhaji Bashir Omotoso, as well as an insurance expert, Alhaji Lukman Lanre Oyeniyi.
Speaking, Oyo NUJ Chairman, Mr. Akeem Abas, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting discipline, professionalism and good governance within the journalism profession.
Abas also emphasised the importance of religious harmony within the council, noting that the union would continue to support initiatives that strengthen unity among members irrespective of religious affiliations.
He disclosed that the ongoing construction of the NUJ Mosque at the Press Centre would, upon completion, serve as a spiritual hub for Muslim journalists to worship, reflect and foster unity.
Delivering the Ramadan Lecture titled “The Growth of Islam in the Community: Our Responsibilities and Expectations,” the Guest Lecturer, Mr. Attah Kolawole, Principal Partner at Qist Legal Consult, Ibadan, urged Muslims to exemplify the values of Islam through good conduct and service to humanity.
Kolawole charged Muslim faithful, particularly journalists, to distinguish themselves through acts of charity, peace and integrity, noting that such virtues would help attract more people to the religion.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of Oyo NUJ Muslim Community, Alhaji Adebayo Ajagbe, called on well-meaning Nigerians and Muslim journalists to support the speedy completion of the NUJ Central mosque’s project.
In his appreciation, Chairman Ramadan Planning Committee, Khalid Imran thanked attendees who within shortest notice of invitation responded swifty to the religious gathering, praying Allah to grant their requests and make their participation as an act of Ibadah.
