Ansarudeen society, critical pillar in national devt — Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has described the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria as a critical organization whose contributions to national development cannot be overemphasised.

Tinubu stated this at the opening ceremony of the 11th Triennial National Conference of the Society in Abeokuta on Saturday.

The President, who was represented by the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr. (Mrs) Noimot Salako-Oyedele, said that the impact of the Society is visible across generations, particularly in its ability to nurture God-fearing, intellectually sound, and socially responsible individuals.

He acknowledged the contributions of the Islamic organization in education, the health sector, and other areas, noting that the Society is one with a noble heritage of faith, knowledge, and service.

Tinubu said the theme of the conference, “Islam and Muslims: Responsibilities and Relevance in a Pluralistic World”, is thought-provoking in a world increasingly characterized by diversity of thought, belief, and culture.

“The theme reminds us that while we hold fast to our faith, we must also engage with the broader society constructively and conscientiously.

“Let this conference be a platform for honest reflection, bold ideas, and practical recommendations that help reinforce the relevance of Islam in addressing today’s challenges—from youth development to moral leadership, from education reform to economic empowerment. Your deliberations must point us towards unity and collective progress,” he said.

The President stressed that Muslims must continue to be ambassadors of justice, compassion, and peaceful coexistence.

While praising the enduring relationship that has existed between the Society and his forebears over time, the President noted that the Society has consistently championed the cause of Islamic education and community development in Nigeria.

President Tinubu reaffirmed that his administration remains committed to building a more inclusive, secure, and prosperous Nigeria, guided by the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He emphasized that his focus is on reviving the economy, uplifting the poor, and restoring confidence in public institutions.

According to him, these goals cannot be achieved without the support and partnership of credible, value-driven organizations such as the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria. He urged them to remain steadfast in their noble pursuits and to continue serving as a force for unity, progress, and enlightenment for the citizenry.

In his keynote address, Professor Mustapha Olalekan Arikewuyo stated that Muslims have the responsibility to ensure peaceful coexistence and mutual respect for both Muslims and non-Muslims, considering the pluralistic nature of Nigerian society.

He urged all attendees to respect the rights and dignity of others, regardless of their background or faith.

He further emphasized that Muslims have a duty to promote civic engagement and enrichment, saying they can share their cultural heritage and traditions with others while also learning and appreciating the cultural diversity around them.

In his remarks, the JAMB Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, urged members of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society to tolerate one another, be good ambassadors of the Society, act uniquely in their interactions with others, show love, and embrace peace and harmony.

Earlier, in his welcome address, the President of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria (ADSN), Aare (Dr.) Abdul-Rafiu Ademola Sanni, stated that the triennial conference serves as a platform to reflect on the Society’s achievements, assess its challenges, and strategize for the future.
He added that the aim is to reinforce the Society’s commitment to educational advancement, moral empowerment, social justice, and economic development.