The Vice Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Wahab Olasupo Egbewole, SAN, on Tuesday hosted members of the Press and other stakeholders to the university’s annual Iftar, emphasizing the importance of sustained collaboration between the institution and the media.
The event, held at the Vice Chancellor’s Lodge within the university campus, brought together principal officers of the institution, members of staff unions, international students, and other members of the university community.
The annual Iftar gathering provided an opportunity for members of the university community and the media to interact, strengthen relationships, and reflect on the values of unity, gratitude, and spiritual renewal during the Holy Month of Ramadan.
Speaking during the gathering, Prof. Egbewole expressed appreciation to journalists for their continued support and constructive engagement with the university.
He described members of the press as critical stakeholders who have contributed significantly to sustaining the institution’s reputation and progress.
The Vice Chancellor noted that the relationship between the university and the media has continued to grow stronger over time, adding that the support of the press corps has been invaluable to the institution.
He thanked the journalists for honouring the invitation despite their busy schedules, noting that their presence demonstrated commitment to the partnership between the university and the media. He described the gathering as a moment of unity and reflection during the holy month of Ramadan.
The Vice Chancellor expressed optimism that the annual engagement would continue to strengthen relationships among members of the university community while fostering mutual understanding.
In his sermon, the Deputy Chief Imam of the University of Ilorin, Prof. Musa Sidiq Abdullahi, emphasized the spiritual significance of fasting during the holy month of Ramadan.
Delivering a message on behalf of the Chief Imam, Prof. Nasir AbdusSalam, he reminded Muslims that fasting was prescribed by Almighty Allah as a means of attaining piety and strengthening faith.
He urged the faithful to reflect on their spiritual growth during the fasting period and assess whether their faith had increased through acts of worship and devotion.
According to him, Ramadan is not merely a period of abstaining from food and drink but a time for self-discipline, increased prayers, recitation of the Holy Qur’an, and seeking forgiveness from Allah.
Prof. Abdullahi further called on Muslims to maximize the opportunities presented during the last ten days of Ramadan to increase supplication, and engagement in night prayers.
The cleric encouraged Muslims to devote more time to spiritual activities and reduce distractions, especially from social media, in order to benefit fully from the spiritual rewards of the holy month.
The event also featured special prayers for Nigeria, Kwara State, the University of Ilorin, and all those present, seeking peace, progress, and continued prosperity for the nation and the institution.
