Imam Raji Adams Adebayo
CEO, Abrar Innovation Tech (AIT) & National Ameer, Abrar Foundation, Lagos State.
Moving Nigeria forward can only be achieved through effective management. Islam has taught us the principles of good governance, beginning with the management of our homes. These teachings, exemplified by our Noble Prophet (peace be upon him), include fundamental principles such as:
1. Accountability and Justice:
“The God-fearing believers are against anyone from among them who commits injustice, seeks payment through unfair means, engages in sinful deeds, aggression, or corruption among the community of the faithful. They would stand against him, even if he were the son of one of them.” (Quran, Chapter 5, Verse 33)
In today’s Muslim community, do we adhere to these principles in our management of affairs? Are these values reflected in our broader society, let alone in the Nigerian system at large?
2. Unity and Cooperation:
The Muslim community is one political and social unit. Even a person from the lowest rank among them can commit the community to offering help to another. The faithful are associates of one another before all other people. However, instead of building a God-fearing and united community, we have been creating divisions within our creed, which indirectly affect the progress and success of our nation.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught:
“He who follows us from among the Jews will have our support and comfort; they will not be oppressed, and their enemies will not be aided against them.”
This principle of fairness and inclusivity is critical to building a harmonious and prosperous society.
3. Promoting Peace and Good Relations:
The Prophet of God (peace be upon him) said:
“Do you know what is better than charity, fasting, and prayer? It is keeping peace and good relations between people, regardless of their differences, for quarrels and bad feelings destroy mankind.” (Bukhari/Muslim)
Nigeria has reached a stage where peace is scarce, and quarrels dominate our interactions. This negative trait has been planted by a minority of elites across our geopolitical zones. As Muslims, we must rise above these divisions and act according to the laid-down principles of Islam to achieve greatness and build a successful nation.
Finally, the teachings of Islam offer a roadmap for fostering unity, peace, and progress. It is incumbent upon the Muslim community to lead by example, instill these values in our society, and contribute actively to the development of Nigeria.
Imam Raji Adams Adebayo
CEO, Abrar Innovation Tech (AIT) & National Ameer, Abrar Foundation, Lagos State
