… Speaks on other sundry issues affecting the nation, world at Press Conference
The Muslim Students Society of Nigeria (MSSN) has lamented brain drain and ‘japa’ syndrome among Nigerian youths who are seeking greener pastures overseas calling for overhauling of the education sector to the youths place in the future.
Speaking at a press conference at the Lagos Secretariat Mosque, to mark the 70th anniversary of the organisation, Lagos State Amir (President), Kamaldeen Abiona spoke on the danger the ‘japa’ and brain drain syndrome portend.
He spoke on other sundry issues affecting the Nigerian youth and the education sector as well as the world over.
The Bliss News produces the speeches as delivered by the Amir at the press conference below:
Curbing the Trend of Japa and Brain Drain:
Moreover, the alarming trend of “Japa” and brain drain among our youth underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in our educational system and socio-economic policies. Too many talented and promising young individuals are leaving our shores in search of greener pastures abroad, depriving our nation of valuable human capital and potential leaders.
We cannot afford to lose our brightest minds to brain drain. The key lies in prioritizing education as a national imperative. Increased budgetary allocations to education, alongside investments in infrastructure development, are essential. We need well-equipped classrooms, updated libraries, and access to affordable technology in all schools. Addressing these issues will create an environment that fosters learning and encourages our youth to see a bright future for themselves in Nigeria.
We must create an enabling environment that nurtures talent, fosters innovation, and rewards merit. This requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders—government, academia, private sector, and civil society—to address the root causes of this phenomenon and provide viable alternatives for our youth to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the development of our nation.
Therefore, we call upon the President Bola Tinubu administration and the Lagos State government to demonstrate a renewed commitment to education. We need a collaborative effort between the government, the private sector, and educational institutions. Together, let us create a system that empowers and equips our youth to become the leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers of tomorrow.
Appeal to the Government:
Therefore, I call upon the government at both the federal and state levels, particularly the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the Lagos State government, to prioritize education and invest more in educational infrastructure. We cannot afford to neglect our most valuable asset—our youth. By investing in education, we are investing in the future of our nation.
To the MSSN Family: Embrace the Challenge
To the members of MSSN across Nigeria, particularly here in Lagos, I say this: The next big thing starts with you. Let us continue to be the vanguard of positive change. Embrace innovation and technology to reach out to a wider audience. Foster interfaith dialogue and promote tolerance and understanding within our communities.
MSSN’s Enduring Legacy: A Beacon of Knowledge and Faith
As we mark the 70th Anniversary of MSSN, it is very imperative to touch on how the society came to life. The MSSN we all know today was the brainchild of some Muslim youths, who were very desirous of development of Islam and young Muslims in the country.
MSSN was actually launched officially at the Ansaruddeen Alakoro Mosque School Hall, Lagos on 30 May 1954. Within a year of formation, its branches spread to cover more schools in Lagos, Abeokuta, Ibadan, Ilesha, IjebuOde, and Ikorodu.
Today, we remember those behind the formation of this lofty initiative called MSSN. We also urge that prayers be showered on the founders.
We would not forget the efforts made by our founding fathers whose ingenuity gave birth to the creation of MSSN to combat challenges of our modern society, which have gradually started to creep into our present everyday life, with the molestations of Muslims in hijab in spite of the Supreme Court judgments.
May Allah immensely reward our great fathers, the likes of the late Dr. Abdul Lateef Adegbite, Alhaji Tajudeen Aromashodun, Justice ARA Saheed, Engr.Ismail Laguda, Prof.Babatunde Fafunwa, Alhaja Latifah Okunnu, Prof. Biobaku and a host of others.
A brief prayer session would be made for the departed founders before the end of this session.
On a special note, we recognize Late Alhaji Chief Gani Adekunle Adetola-Kazeem (SAN) LP for his unfettered support and contribution especially in the case of Hijab.
We also need to call on the children of the founding fathers to continue the legacy of their forefathers. It will continue to be Sodaqatu Jaariyah for their parents.
The history of MSSN in Nigeria is a testament to the organization’s unwavering commitment to its core values. MSSN has fostered a vibrant platform for Islamic education, nurturing young minds in the principles of our faith. Through lectures, seminars, and mentorship programs, MSSN has empowered students to become well-rounded individuals, grounded in their beliefs and equipped to contribute positively to society.
Over the years, MSSN has made remarkable strides in various spheres of our society. From providing educational scholarships to needy students, organizing impactful community development projects, to advocating for the rights and welfare of students, MSSN has been a catalyst for positive change.
The organization has consistently promoted academic excellence, moral uprightness, and social responsibility among its members, thereby contributing to the overall development of our nation.
The theme for this momentous occasion, “The Next Big Thing,” is a powerful call to action. It compels us not only to reflect on our achievements but also to envision the future we want to create for ourselves and generations to come.
Impact of MSSN Lagos on Students in Lagos:
Here in Lagos, the MSSN chapter has been a pillar of support for students, providing a platform for intellectual growth, spiritual nourishment, and personal development. Through its numerous programs and initiatives, MSSN Lagos has empowered countless young individuals to realize their full potential and become responsible citizens and future leaders.
Our impact extends beyond religious education. MSSN has consistently championed academic excellence. We offer scholarships, organize revision classes, and promote a culture of continuous learning. These initiatives have played a significant role in shaping the success stories of countless Nigerian graduates who are now making their mark in various fields.
MSSN Lagos: Cultivating Leaders and Shaping Futures
Here in Lagos, MSSN has carved a niche for itself within the bustling student landscape. Our chapters across schools and institutions have become hubs for intellectual discourse, social engagement, and community service. We provide a safe space for students to navigate the complexities of their academic journeys and personal lives.
MSSN Lagos has been at the forefront of addressing challenges faced by students in our dear state. We have advocated for improved student welfare facilities, including better hostels, affordable transportation, and accessible healthcare services. We have also championed efforts to combat the menace of cultism and drug abuse within educational institutions.
Addressing Challenges Facing Students & Youth Empowerment
In addition to financial constraints, students in Nigeria face numerous other challenges, including inadequate educational infrastructure, limited access to quality healthcare, and rampant unemployment. These challenges not only hinder their academic pursuits but also threaten their overall well-being and future prospects.
The empowerment of our youth is critical. We need to bridge the widening gap between education and employability. Investing in skills development programs, fostering entrepreneurship initiatives, and strengthening industry partnerships are crucial steps. Only then can we ensure our graduates are equipped with the necessary skills to thrive in the ever-evolving job market.
However, despite the commendable efforts of MSSN and other stakeholders, we cannot ignore the challenges facing our students today. One of the pressing issues is the burden of student loans, which often shackles young minds with the chains of debt and stifles their aspirations for higher education. It is imperative that we address this issue and explore sustainable solutions to ensure that every student has access to quality education, regardless of their financial background.
Furthermore, youth empowerment remains a crucial priority for our nation’s development. We must invest in programs and initiatives that equip our young people with the skills, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. MSSN is committed to playing its part in this endeavor by empowering students to become agents of positive change in their communities.
Fellow Nigerians, Let Us Rise Together
The future of Nigeria rests on the shoulders of its youth. Let us invest in them, nurture their talents, and empower them to reach their full potential. By working together, we can transform “The Next Big Thing” into a reality – a Nigeria brimming with vibrant, educated, and empowered young people ready to lead us into a brighter future.
Let us recommit ourselves to the noble cause of education, youth empowerment, and nation-building. Together, let us strive to create a future where every young Nigerian has the opportunity to fulfill their dreams and aspirations, where no one is left behind, and where our nation shines brightly as a beacon of hope and progress for generations to come.
Freedom for Palestine
In conclusion, as we celebrate the 70th Anniversary of MSSN in Nigeria, MSSN Lagos calls upon the Nigerian government and world leaders to take immediate and decisive actions to bring about a ceasefire in Gaza and secure the freedom of Palestinians.
Going by the urgency of the situation in Gaza, sadly, there has been a devastating toll of the ongoing conflict on innocent civilians, particularly women and children. With images of destruction and suffering flooding the media, the call for peace and justice resonates deeply with the MSSN Lagos community and beyond.
Drawing upon the principles of justice, humanity, and solidarity, we urge the Nigerian government to utilize its diplomatic channels to advocate for an end to the violence and a peaceful resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Additionally, we cannot overemphasize the importance of global leadership, we therefore, urge world leaders to step up and intervene to prevent further bloodshed and ensure the protection of Palestinian rights.
This call to action extends beyond mere words, we also ask for concrete steps to be taken to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people and pave the way for a lasting peace in the region.
