Nigerians have been urged to carry forward the spirit of neighborliness experienced during the holy month of Ramadan, ensuring that it continues beyond the sacred period to foster lasting positive change in society.
The Mudeer of Al-Jannat College, Fadilat Shaykh Abdul-Fatai Babatunde Abdul-Raud (Yaa Baba) delivered this powerful message at the inaugural Ramadan Lecture organized by the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos State Chapter, on Friday.
Speaking on the theme “Neighborhood in Islam: The Panacea to Youth Disintegration” at the public lecture held at the Youth House, Alagomeji, Yaba, Lagos, the cleric emphasized the critical role that youth, who make up the largest segment of the population, play in the future of the nation. He cautioned that any disintegration within the youth demographic would have a negative impact on the country.
Drawing on the proverb “charity begins at home,” Shaykh Abdul-Fatai stressed that neighborliness must start with those closest to us, within our families and immediate communities.
The cleric shared an illustration from Islamic history, recounting a well-known Hadith about Caliph Abubakri’s proposal to marry the daughter of Prophet Muhammad, Fatimah. Despite his hope, his request was rejected by the Prophet, who said that only Allah could decide whom she would marry.
Rather than attempt to block others’ chances of marrying Fatimah, a disappointed Abubakri approached Umar and Utman, asking if they were interested in proposing. However, their requests were also met with the same rejection from the Prophet.
In an act of mutual support and understanding, the three caliphs encouraged Caliph Alli to try his luck. His proposal was ultimately accepted, and the Prophet confirmed him as Allah’s chosen one for his daughter.
The cleric highlighted the mutual love, support, and exemplary character displayed by the caliphs during this moment, noting that such behavior is exactly what the society needs in order to thrive and build stronger, more cohesive communities.
According to the cleric, a neighbor in Islam includes anyone within a 40-house radius, underscoring the importance of showing kindness, respect, and care for those around us, irrespective of their religion, culture, or background.
He urged the attendees to embrace the neighborliness demonstrated throughout the holy month of Ramadan, emphasizing its significance in fostering unity and building a better society.
Earlier, Engr. Adigun Ibrahim Olalekan, MNSE, Chairman of the youth umbrella body, highlighted the importance of the program as the first of its kind under his leadership. He stated that the event was organized to refresh the youth’s understanding of the vital role of neighborliness in nation-building and commended the directorate of Peace, Ethics, and Religious Matters for organizing the lecture.
Comrade Adebisi Oyeshakin, Director of the directorate, explained that the program was part of a broader mandate to engage youth in meaningful dialogue and promote awareness of religious teachings. He hinted that upcoming events, including an Easter Get-Together and an Inter-Faith Summit, would further promote youth consciousness regarding their respective religious values.
The event concluded with heartfelt prayers for the youth, Lagos State, and Nigeria at large before the attendees all of whom were youth representatives from across the 57 LGAs and LCDAs were treated to a nutritious meal to break their fast.
