"And who is better in speech than one who invites to Allฤh and does righteousness and says, 'Indeed, I am one of the Muslims.'" — Quran 41:33
In the luminous spirit of this sacred verse, a momentous assembly unfolded, marking a pivotal chapter in the landscape of Islamic Da'wah in Nigeria. Over fifty eminent Islamic comparative scholars and preachers convened at the esteemed International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, on Saturday, January 11th, 2025. This grand gathering, unprecedented in Nigeria’s history, was orchestrated to honour the exemplary efforts of those dedicated to the noble task of inviting to the path of Allah.
The Academy of Islamic Propagation (ACADIP) joyously commemorated three decades of unwavering commitment to spellbinding Da'wah, paving the way for a celebration that spanned across nations. On this day, more than fifty distinguished preachers were duly recognized for their invaluable contributions to the propagation of Islam, culminating in an awards ceremony which resonated through the hearts of believers. The grand finale was slated for the subsequent day, Sunday, January 12th, 2025, where further honours awaited at the same illustrious venue.
On this blessed occasion, the event was anchored by none other than Mallam Yusuf Olatunde Oladimeji Adepoju, a revered public orator in the realm of Comparative Da'wah and interfaith dialogue. His presence infused the proceedings with exceptional gravitas, reminding attendees that while human accolades are ephemeral, the rewards from Allah are boundless and eternal. As he eloquently reminded the gathering, “Human awards, Allah rewards."
As the program unfolded, the spotlight shone upon the award recipients, whose unwavering commitment to the mechanisms of Da'wah transcended the ordinary. They represent the vanguard of Islamic eloquence and righteousness, reflecting the essence of the Quranic admonition that elevates the act of inviting mankind to the truth.
As scholars received their awards, reflections on the essence of this gathering were shared. Dr Banire Buniyamin Alalaye articulated a profound message, viewing the awards not merely as tokens of recognition but as clarion calls to collective responsibility and reawakening. He implored the community to embrace unity and humility, recognizing the importance of sincerity in actions for the acceptance of Allah.
Similarly, Dr Dawood Ayodele Amoo (Alaga) emphasized the imperative of each Muslim to embody the spirit of a missionary. He underscored the urgency of developing comparative religious knowledge in current times, as challenges to Islam persist. His clarion call urged Muslims to cultivate a firm understanding of Islamic tenets amidst the trials posed by misconceptions against the faith.
All in all, the assembly is the first of its kind, as many Islamic scholars and comparative geniuses convened in celebration of Acadip Three Decades of Spellbound Da'wah. The Journey of intellectuals continues, tomorrow being the grand finale; truly, a stupendous Sunday will be known via a sweet Saturday.
✍️ Ridwan Ayanfe Olanrewaju (Scripturist)
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