THE amir (president) of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), Lagos State Area Unit, Malam Kamoldeen Abiona, said the body had been a pillar of support for students across the state.
Speaking during a briefing on 70th anniversary of the MSSN at the Lagos State Secretariat Central Mosque, Alausa, Ikeja, Abiona said MSSN had over the years provided a platform for students’ intellectual growth, spiritual nourishment and personal development.
According to him, through numerous programmes and initiatives, MSSN-Lagos had empowered countless young individuals to realise their full potential and become responsible citizens and future leaders.
He said: “Our impact extends beyond religious education. MSSN has consistently championed academic excellence. We offer scholarships, organise 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 marks in various fields.
“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.”
Abiona appealed to government at the federal and state levels to prioritise education and invest more in educational infrastructure.
The Muslim students’ leader urged President Bola Tinubu to stop the brain drain through proper funding of education.
He decried the alarming trend of ‘Japa’ and brain drain among youths.
This, he said, underscored the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in the educational system and socio-economic policies.
According to him, too many talented and promising young individuals are leaving the country in search of greener pastures abroad, depriving Nigeria of valuable human capital and potential leaders.
Abiona said: “We cannot afford to neglect our most valuable asset – our youth. By investing in education, we are investing in the future of our nation.
“We cannot afford to lose our brightest minds to brain drain. The key lies in prioritising 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 youths 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.”
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