Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has called on Muslim women to actively involve in creating awareness on peaceful elections and ensuring election of credible candidates that will entrench good governance and enhance the well-being of citizens.
The foremost Muslim women’s organisation stated this at the 37th FOMWAN Annual National Conference held at Federal Government College, Rumuokoro, Rivers State from 8th – 11th September 2022.
While also lamenting on the devastating effect of insecurity in Nigeria, FOMWAN tasked the government at all levels to put in place a robust architecture to address the issue of insecurity in Nigeria.
FOMWAN, however, called on all Nigerians to take the issue of Community and National security seriously and to be actively involved in finding ways of ensuring security of human lives and property.
In a communique issued at the end of the conference, FOMWAN lamented on the high rate of inflation, economic challenges affecting the Nation which have impacted negatively on women and youths.
The faith based organisation also expressed concern about the serious gap that exists between generations which has affected social and National Development in the society.
“We observe the negative use of the social media which is eroding social values and adversely affecting the youths”, the communique read.
The organisation, which expressed its dismay on inadequate involvement of Muslim women in politics and in policy making positions, called on women to participate in politics with fear of Almighty Allah, taking cognizance of Islamic Rights without jeopardizing their morality and motherly roles.
It also persuaded the government and the general populace to shun ethnic and religious bigotry in politics while promoting the culture of tolerance and understanding.
While calling on relevant institutions to be put in place a regulatory measures on the use of social media in Nigeria, FOMWAN advocated that mentorship should be mainstreamed in our individual lives, the Nigerian curriculum at all levels and fast tracked by the Nigerian Education Resource Development Center and other relevant institutions.
This year’s conference was attended by 600 Muslim Women from across 28 states in Nigeria including FCT Abuja.
The theme and sub-themes for the conference are: “Bridging inter-Generational Gaps for Sustainable Development: Spectrum of opportunities using the Islamic lens”.
i. Developing an effective framework for enhancing sustainable livelihood.
ii. Mentorship as a tool for empowerment and leadership sustainability
ii. Entrenching Good Governance in public affairs; – a panacea for ensuring security and equity
The opening ceremony which was held at Obi Wali International Conference Center, Port- Harcourt, was attended by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, CFR; The Special Adviser to the Governor of Rivers State on Youth & Sports, Mr. Awwal Ogiri, who represented the Executive Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Ezenwo Nyesom Wike, CON.
The keynote was presented by Professor Abdulrazaq O. Kelani, (FCA) of the University of Port-Harcourt, while the the occasion was Chaired by Alhaji Taiwo Mustapha.
The conference was attended by Muslim Scholars across the State, Government Functionaries and traditional leaders from the community.