The Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT) commemorated its 30th anniversary with an intellectually stimulating and spiritually enriching public lecture held at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Yaba, Lagos. The event, streamed live to over 100,000 viewers globally, drew a distinguished audience of public figures, Islamic scholars, and committed members of the Muslim community.
The event commenced with a welcome address by the President of NASFAT, Alhaji Ayodeji AbdulWahid AbdulRauf, who reflected on the society’s three-decade journey of spiritual, educational, and humanitarian accomplishments. He highlighted the establishment of 28 primary schools, 8 secondary schools, 5 healthcare centers, and Fountain University, Osogbo, as testaments to NASFAT’s commitment to value-driven growth. “We have stayed true to our mission of peace, discipline, and service to humanity,” he said, reinforcing NASFAT’s vision of non-violence and moral leadership.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Dr. Tope Fasuwa, praised NASFAT for its consistent investment in faith-based education, moral values, and social responsibility. In his goodwill message, he emphasized the need for religious organizations to shape ethical leadership and address socioeconomic challenges. “Islam must not only guide our worship but also inspire bold solutions in governance, entrepreneurship, and education,” Shettima stated.
The Vice President further called for synergy between government and credible faith-based institutions in national development. He underscored NASFAT’s role in promoting peaceful coexistence and youth empowerment, describing it as a “beacon of moral light and civic progress.”
Chairman of the Day, Dr. Wale Babalakin (SAN), delivered a thought-provoking address that emphasized the urgent need for Muslims to step into leadership roles with honour and vision. He urged the faithful to reflect Islamic values through competence, integrity, and accountability. “We must stop waiting for others to define our future. Muslims must lead by example and with excellence,” he charged.
Dr. Babalakin also commended NASFAT for its progressive ideals and its transformation from a modest prayer group into a global Islamic movement. He pledged personal and financial support to NASFAT’s ongoing headquarters project along the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway. “This is a noble initiative that will become a centre of Islamic excellence. I will support it wholeheartedly,” he affirmed.
The keynote lecture was delivered by former Lagos Governor and ex-Minister of Power, Works, and Housing, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN. Titled “Faith, Social Justice and Economic Empowerment: Pathways to a Better World,” the lecture dissected the disconnect between religiosity and ethics in Nigerian society. Fashola called for a moral reset through value-based education and social equity.
Former Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, in his goodwill message, gave a deeply personal reflection on his return to Islam. “There was a time I left the faith, but Allah brought me back through my wife,” he shared. He celebrated NASFAT’s impact and urged renewed support for its future, stating, “We must energize this movement and uplift its spiritual and civic mission.”
The Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, represented by Alhaja Nafisat Arogundade, commended NASFAT for championing religious moderation and civic development. She lauded the organization’s educational efforts and pledged continued collaboration to support moral development among youth and women.
The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, was represented by Engr. AbdulHafis Gbolahan Toriola, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Housing. In his message, Engr. Toriola acknowledged NASFAT’s strong role in fostering peaceful coexistence and urban progress, and encouraged further cooperation with the state on faith-based community initiatives.
The Chief Missioner of NASFAT, Imam Maroofdeen AbdulAzeez Onike, led the spiritual component of the event and welcomed esteemed clerics, including the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Sulaimon Abou-Nolla, and Dr. Moshood Adenrele Fashola, National President of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at in Nigeria.
Also in attendance were legal luminary Dr. Muiz Banire, SAN, and Alhaji Kazeem Adeniji, SAN, President of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria. The Director-General of NIMR, Prof. John Oladapo Obafunwa, extended institutional support and hailed NASFAT’s community impact.
NASFAT’s 30th Anniversary activities were expertly coordinated by Alhaji Tunde Amolegbe, Chairman of the 30th Anniversary Lecture Committee, and Alhaji Kayode Isiak Oshinuga, Chairman of the overall Anniversary Planning Committee. Their leadership ensured a seamless and impactful program that blended intellectual depth with spiritual substance.
The event’s dynamism was brought to life by co-anchors Owolabi Oseni, NASFAT’s National Public Relations Secretary; Barr. Nymat Akashat-Zibiri, lawyer and TV host on Your View; and Kafayat Oyewo, creative director of Kiin Media. Their charisma and command ensured an engaging experience for both live and virtual audiences.
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