On Sunday, 2nd March 2025, the 18th Prof I. A. B. Balogun Ramadan Lecture was held at the Aderemi Makanjuola Lecture Theatre, Lagos State University Main Campus, Ojo, drawing a diverse audience of both Muslims and non-Muslims, and filling the venue beyond its capacity. Islamic scholars united in delivering a powerful message to government officials, urging them to govern with the fear of Allah and uphold accountability as their guiding principle.
The event commenced with an opening address by the Chairman of the LASU Muslim Community, Professor B. R. Yusuf. He expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for the opportunity to witness the annual lecture and acknowledged the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi I. Olatunji-Bello, for her unwavering support, as well as the numerous dignitaries, deans, and members of the LASU community present.
The first lecture was delivered by the Chief Imam of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Honourable Dr Abdul-Lateef Abdul-Hakeem. His presentation, titled *“Preserving the Muslim Identity in Challenging Times: A Guide to Spiritual and Social Resilience,”* emphasised the importance of maintaining one’s identity as a servant of Allah amidst societal challenges. He referenced various chapters of the Qur’an, including; *Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183-189)*. These verses highlight the significance of fasting and self-discipline as means of attaining Taqwa (piety and fear of Allah). *Surah Al-Anfal (8:28)**, “And know that your properties and your children are but a trial and that Allah has with Him a great reward.” This verse reminds individuals of their responsibilities towards their faith and community. Also, *Surah An-Nahl (16:97)*, “Whoever does righteous deeds, whether male or female, while he is a believer – We will surely cause him to live a good life.” This emphasises the importance of righteous living and maintaining one’s identity.
Dr Abdul-Hakeem cautioned that losing our identity as humans and true Muslims created for the service of Allah and humanity is the greatest evil that must be addressed for better coexistence. He observed that the natural disasters faced by other nations highlight Allah’s mercy towards Nigeria, yet many respond with ingratitude.
The second lecture, titled *“Islamic Panacea for Socio-Economic Development and Nation Building,”* was presented by the Vice-Chancellor of the African School of Economics, Professor Mahfouz Adebola Adedimeji. He identified corruption, economic inequality, and political instability as major obstacles to sustainable development. He highlighted the following Qur’anic teachings; *Surah An-Nisa (4:58)*: “Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people to judge with justice.” This underlines the need for sincerity and justice in governance.*Surah Al-Baqarah (2:172)*: “Eat of the good things We have provided for you, and be grateful to Allah.” This verse emphasises gratitude and ethical conduct in economic activities. *Surah Ash-Shu’ara (26:183)*: “And do not withhold from people their due and do not commit abuse on the earth, spreading corruption.” This emphasises the importance of fairness and justice in economic transactions.
Professor Adedimeji further elaborated on the ethical foundations of Islamic governance, rooted in justice, consultation (Shura), and trustworthiness. He explained that Shura ensures participatory decision-making, preventing autocratic rule, as highlighted in *Surah Ash-Shura (42:38)*: “And those who have responded to (the needs of) their leader with consultation and have established prayer and spent (in charity) out of what We have provided for them.”
The Chief Host, Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi I. Olatunji-Bello, represented by Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academics, Professor Oseni Taiwo Afisi, commended the A.I.B. Balogun Foundation and LASUMUC for fostering spiritual and intellectual discourse within the LASU community. She echoed the teachings from the lectures, encouraging the faithful to support their leaders while emphasising the importance of accountability.
The Chairman of the Day, Alhaji (Hon.) Muftau Abiodun Yinusa, Special Adviser to the President on Agriculture and Food Sustainability, expressed gratitude for the blessings of Ramadan and highlighted the potential for agricultural collaboration with LASU, specifically in green vegetable production.
Goodwill messages were delivered by esteemed dignitaries, including the Vice-Chancellor, LASUED, Professor Bilikis Lafiaji-Okuneye, Vice-Chancellor, LASCOHET, Professor Raheem Olasupo Akewushola and Executive Chairperson, Oriade LCDA, Hon. RamotaLlhai Akinola-Hassan, among others.
The event featured an opening prayer by Dr Salman Yunus and a recitation from the Qur’an by Abdulrasheed Abdulgafar. The closing remarks and prayer were conducted by Chief Imam Distinguished Professor Sanni.
The ceremony culminated with the presentation of awards to guest lecturers and other notable figures, as well as a collection of donations for LASUMUC projects and group photographs.
SOURCE: CIPR LASU