MAN seeks family bonding as antidote against divorce, youth delinquency

The Muslim Association of Nigeria (MAN) has called on Muslim families across the nation to prioritize the creation of ideal and peaceful homes, emphasizing their crucial role in fostering a harmonious society. Speaking during MAN’s Ramadan lecture and award ceremony, the former Minister of Works and Housing, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola, urged parents and guardians to prioritize the upbringing of their children, as it holds the key to the development of families, communities, and the nation as a whole. Fashola stressed the profound impact of child upbringing on societal progress.

“The importance of raising children with strong values cannot be overstated,” he said, adding, “The moregood people we have in our society, the more goodness will prevail.” He emphasized the collective responsibility of parents and guardians to instil positive values in their children, aligning with Islamic principles and the spirit of Ramadan. “We must all commit to the responsibility of parenting, adhering to the values and virtues of Islam and the tenets of peaceful and joyful coexistence that Ramadan embodies,” he stated.



The event was not only a platform for insightful discourse but also a celebration of service and dedication. Dignitaries, including former Minister of Works and Housing, Babatunde Fashola, mother of the Chief of Staff to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, AlhajaLateefat Olufunke Gbajabiamila and Chairman of Island Club, Prince Rabiu Adio Oluwa, among others were honoured and decorated as patrons of the association, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the community and the promotion of Islamic values. The National President of Muslim Association of Nigeria (MAN), Prof.

DhikrullahYagboYaju stressed the direct correlation between the peace within individual homes and the overall peace of the nation. “If our families are peaceful, our society will undoubtedly be at peace,” he asserted. He said that a stable home is a core value of Islam, and is the key to a stable society, encouraging families to embrace the teachings of Islam and cultivate environments of love, respect, and understanding, thereby contributing to a more peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

Chairman, Lagos MAN, Alhaji Ismail Ogunbambi, said the event was a momentous occasion for the association by celebrating remarkable achievements and contributions of exceptional individuals in the society. “This award today serves as a tribute to their dedication, hard work, and commitment to enhancing community and promoting Islam.” He extended warm congratulations to the awardees on the well-deserved recognition.

“Your selfless dedication and commitment to our association and community have not gone unnoticed. Our esteemed patrons, newly installed patron, chairmen, chairpersons, distinguished guests and honoured guests, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your esteemed presence. May Allah (SWT) continue to bless, guide, and prosper you abundantly,” he prayed.

The Guest lecturer, Justice Abdullah Adam Al-Ilory, highlighted a complex web of factors contributing to marital breakdown, with social media and financial pressures taking centre stage. He delved into the Islamic perspective on marriage, stressing the importance of faith and respect. He asserted that reciting the Holy Quran, particularly Surah Baqarah, could bring financial stability to a household.

He also addressed the delicate balance of jealousy, stating that while some jealousy is natural excessive jealousy is forbidden in Islam. “Islam sees the husband-and-wife relationship as a top-secret, which must be handled maturely,” he stated. He further clarified that disclosing intimate details to third parties, except in cases involving a family doctor, is strictly prohibited.

” On the subject of domestic violence, Justice Al-Ilory urged parents to cultivate open communication with their children. “Let us take our children as friends to the extent they will confide freely in us,” he advised. He also stressed the importance of thorough background checks before marriage, emphasizing the significance of religion and family values.

Al-Ilory identified a critical factor as the erosion of trust, often exacerbated by social media. He cautioned against the blurring of lines between online personas and reality, stating, that many matrimonial homes have collapsed as a result of social media content and skits, which are not the same as real life. He reiterated that a home grounded in the fear of will be a peaceful home.

He called for a renewed commitment to traditional values and open communication as essential tools for preserving the sanctity of marriage in an increasingly complex world..