Ansar-UD-Deen Northern Council Holds 9th Triennial Congress, Focuses on Economic and Social Empowerment
By Hussaina Yakubu
October. 25, 2024
The Ansar-UD-Deen Society of Nigeria convened its 9th Triennial Congress of the Northern State Council on Friday in Kaduna, where prominent speakers discussed pressing economic challenges facing the Muslim community.
Prof. Ahmad Bello Dogarawa from the Department of Accounting at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, delivered a keynote presentation on the theme, “Muslims and the Current Economic Challenges.”
Prof. Bello emphasized that Islam provides principles for addressing economic hardships, urging Muslims to strive for legitimate means of livelihood.
He highlighted that Islam teaches that “those who give are better than those who receive,” encouraging Muslims to work and contribute positively to society rather than becoming a burden.
He reminded attendees that Prophet Muhammad and other prophets were actively engaged in business and trade as examples of self-sufficiency and community benefit.
The scholar also cautioned against impatience in wealth accumulation, stressing the need for self-contentment as a form of true wealth.
He encouraged Muslims to work hard, seek lawful income, and avoid sinful practices, as these contribute to economic stability.
Prof. Bello underscored that committing to a legitimate livelihood aligns with Islamic values, as idleness and dependency are contrary to the teachings of the faith.
The President of Ansar-UD-Deen Society, Dr. Abdulrafiu Sanni, represented by the National Secretary, Alhaji Iskeel Yusuf, highlighted the Society’s goals of empowering its members through education, economic opportunities, and social welfare.
Dr. Sanni acknowledged the challenges facing the community, including economic struggles, insecurity, and social inequality.
He called for initiatives that support holistic education, job creation, and entrepreneurship, especially for Muslim youth and women, as a means to strengthen the community’s foundation.
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, represented by Attorney General, Justice Sule Shuibu, commended the Society for its dedication to community empowerment and the positive role the event plays in fostering unity.
He assured the Society of the state’s continued support, noting the significance of Kaduna as a host city after nearly four decades.
Other dignitaries, including the Deputy National President, Alhaji Ibrahim Adebayo, emphasized the Society’s mission to foster a community rooted in the fear and respect for Allah.
He urged members to uphold these values and continue working towards a self-reliant and respectful Muslim community, building on the legacy of the Society’s founding fathers.
The congress also calls for renewed dedication to societal improvement, through both spiritual and practical measures, reinforcing the Ansar-UD-Deen Society’s vision of a prosperous and supportive community in line with Islamic teachings.(NAN)