Celebrating Excellence: Honoring Muslim Women in Nigeria
Peace Magazine recently marked its 23rd anniversary with a special event in Abuja, celebrating the achievements of outstanding Muslim women through its second annual Honour Roll ceremony. The theme of the event, “Celebrating Intelligent Brains Under the Veils,” highlighted the intellectual and moral strength of young female graduates from across Nigeria.
The ceremony was graced by Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (retd), the Chairman and CEO of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). He emphasized the importance of academic excellence and moral integrity among the honorees, urging them to become advocates against drug abuse. According to him, drug abuse poses a significant threat to learning, family life, and the nation’s future.
Marwa praised the honorees, who are First-Class graduates wearing hijabs, for their discipline and dedication. He encouraged them to use their intellect for the betterment of Islam, Nigeria, and humanity at large. “Your success is a testament to steadfastness. But drug abuse remains an impediment to learning and national development. I call on you to use your stories to preach abstinence from drugs, be advocates for clean living and responsible citizenship,” he said.
Alhaji Yusuf Adebayo Ibrahim, Chairman of the occasion and Deputy National President of the Ansar-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria (ADS), underscored the importance of peace as the foundation of every enduring community. He stated that peace is essential for development and family stability, and urged the honorees to use their knowledge to build Islam and serve their communities.
Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmad, the Minister of State for Education, commended the organizers for highlighting the achievements of Muslim female graduates. She described girl-child education as a sacred duty that defines the nation’s progress. Despite her busy schedule, she attended the event to honor the accomplishments of young Muslim women.
“This ceremony is more than recognition; it is a celebration of discipline, perseverance and the quiet strength of women who dared to dream and stayed the course. I see myself in you. You are future ministers, governors and heads of state. Your intellect is a trust; use it to uplift humanity,” she said.
Professor Ahmad also praised Peace Magazine and its Managing Editor, Alhaji AbdulFatai AbdulSalam, for creating a platform that amplifies the voices and brilliance of Muslim women in education and public life. This aligns with the government’s commitment to expanding women’s participation in science, technology, and leadership.
Dr. Habiba Muda Lawal, the Grand Matron of the magazine, delivered the anniversary lecture and reminded the audience that in Islam, knowledge is not a privilege but a duty. She emphasized that learning is a lifelong act of worship.
“Whatever you do shall be measured against the teachings of Islam. Seeking knowledge, both spiritual and secular, is a divine obligation. The hijab is not a barrier to participation or progress; it is a banner of identity, integrity and self-respect,” she said.
Dr. Lawal urged the young women to see themselves as builders of community and nurturers of future generations. She challenged them to take their rightful place in public life with competence and conscience.
“Do not compromise your values for acceptance. Surround yourself with people who see your light and help it shine brighter,” she advised.
Memunat Olawore Omobolanle, one of the honorees and a top graduate from Fountain University, Osogbo, delivered an address titled “The Power of Community: Building a Future Rooted in Faith and Knowledge.”
Key Highlights from the Event
- Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwaemphasized the need for graduates to fight against drug abuse and use their intellect for the greater good.
- Alhaji Yusuf Adebayo Ibrahimhighlighted the role of peace in community development and urged the honorees to contribute to society.
- Professor Suwaiba Said Ahmadpraised the efforts of Peace Magazine and commended the achievements of Muslim women in education.
- Dr. Habiba Muda Lawalstressed the importance of knowledge as a divine obligation and encouraged the honorees to embrace their roles as leaders.