Members of the Obafemi Awolowo University Muslim Graduates’ Association (UNIFEMGA) have urged Nigerians to embrace patriotism, positive thinking and collective responsibility as critical drivers of national development and unity.
The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the association’s 2026 Annual National Re-union held between May 8 and May 10 at Obafemi Awolowo University.
The conference, themed “The Potential Within Nigeria: Positive Mindset and Communication for Success,” brought together Muslim professionals, academics, entrepreneurs and alumni from across the country to deliberate on national development, governance, education and economic growth.
The communiqué, signed by the National President of the association, Mohamed Buari, and the National Secretary, Sefiu Ikudaisi, stated that Nigeria possesses vast human and material resources capable of positioning the country as a major global economic and political force if citizens adopt the right values and mindset.
According to the association, persistent negative narratives, disunity and poor value orientation have continued to hinder the nation’s progress and development potential.
UNIFEMGA noted that Islam promotes innovation, education and developmental initiatives that improve human welfare, provided such pursuits remain within ethical and moral boundaries.
Activities marking the reunion commenced with a special Jumat service at the OAU Central Mosque of Unity, followed by a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor of the university, Adebayo Simeon Bamire, and other principal officers of the institution.
During the visit, discussions focused on areas of mutual interest, with the university management commending the association for its continued contributions to the institution’s growth and development.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of scholarships worth N14.6 million to 140 students of the university under the association’s educational support initiative.
UNIFEMGA disclosed that since the commencement of the scholarship programme during the 2009/2010 academic session, it has disbursed more than N103.4 million to 1,148 students.
The association also launched a N200 million endowment fund aimed at supporting widows and orphans of members through its welfare scheme.
The reunion featured a networking dinner sponsored by the Chairman of the association’s Board of Trustees, Rafiu Ebiti, with discussions centred on entrepreneurship, investment opportunities and value-driven leadership.
The reunion lecture was delivered by the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Lanre Issa-Onilu, while the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Matrix Energy Group, Abdulkabir Adisa Aliu, chaired the event.
Also present were representatives of the Osun State Government, including Governor Ademola Adeleke, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Religious Affairs, Bello Adeniyi, as well as the university’s Pro-Chancellor, Adejare Bello.
The association expressed concern over challenges confronting tertiary education in Nigeria, including brain drain, obsolete learning facilities, unstable academic calendars and outdated curricula.
It urged government at all levels to address the challenges urgently and convert the growing “japa” trend into an opportunity for “brain gain” capable of boosting productivity, innovation and national competitiveness.
UNIFEMGA also called for stronger partnerships between universities and the private sector to promote research, innovation and technological advancement.
On the economy, the association urged governments to create a more enabling business environment through improved electricity supply, infrastructure development and greater investment in human capital.
It further warned that rising unemployment among youths could expose many to manipulation by individuals promoting violence and insecurity.
The association maintained that a positive national mindset remains fundamental to building a prosperous, peaceful and united Nigeria, urging citizens to uphold values that encourage discipline, productivity, peace and national cohesion.
