The Guild of Muslim Professionals successfully concluded her mini / October 1st Convention which usually marks the anniversary of Nigeria’s Independence. Annually, the Guild seizes the opportunity to bring experts from diverse socio-political background to speak to the current concerns of the Nation. This yearâs edition is not an exception with the theme – ARISE NIGERIA: Security. Economy. Autonomy. It hosted three experts who spoke to the main and sub-themes.
Professor Taofeek Abdul Azeez, the Imam of Abuja mosque, FCT, opened the session with his speech on the main theme of the Convention. He mentioned that the issue of insecurity of any form overrides other basic aspects of life like Health, Housing, etc., and added that peace of mind cannot be purchased from the market even with the availability of every other luxury of life. He suggested the need to induce creativity and technical diversity in our education system to address the imported mental slavery ideology that has robbed many of the youth of their intellectual capacity. These will also objectively address the âforceful coexistenceâ perceived as peaceful co-existence that we are currently witnessing in some parts of the country which is grossly affecting the Agro Business and its various value chain, a viable business that sustains any economy.
Professor Sabiu Muibi, Director at the Institute of Nigeria-China Development Studies, University of Lagos, Akoka, Lagos Nigeria discussed extensively one of the sub-themes – âBuilding a virile Economy in the period of rising pricesâ. He focused on some of the root causes of the economic challenges which include insecurity, over-reliance on crude oil for our source of revenue and the slow diversification of the economy, and the current inflation and devaluation of the naira being experienced. Some of the solutions proffered include to strategically change our tag âEmerging Marketâ to âIndustrialized Nationâ. This has made it easy for some countries to target the Nigerian market as a dumping ground for products that can be produced locally. He also suggested the localization of adapted international, National / Economic development and labour enhancing models.
Hajia Salatu Sule, the Director, Training & Development Office, New Horizons College Minna, Niger State rounded up excellently, highlighting some distinct actions taken by leaders especially women and the youth of some perceived âsuccessfulâ nations in times of crises. She highlighted the need to check our own context to give benchmarks for success and reminded participants that Islam is our benchmark and has clear guidance for us to be successful. Muslims should also tell their stories by effectively engaging the use of our individual and corporate social media handles and not wait for others to misrepresent news related to Islam and Muslims. She also emphasized the need to intentionally appoint more females to present a more gender-friendly leadership and look beyond the quota system.
It was a success, and we are excited by the active participation of attendees from across the globe, amongst whom were industry experts, professors, economists, entrepreneurs as well as security experts. The Guild will take some strategic actions to implement some of their robust contributions to assist in the development of our nation.
Another event to look out for is the Guilds annual convention in December. It promises to be engaging and shall be a physical event this year. We do hope to see you all.
Watch this spaceâŚ
