By
Babangida Galleon
Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has expressed the state government’s commitment to partnering with organizations focused on promoting education in the state.
The governor made this known during the opening of the 41st Annual International Conference of the Nigeria Association of Teachers of Arabic and Islamic Studies (NATAIS), held in Yola.
Themed “Peace and Security at the National and International Scenes: Arabic and Islamic Studies Perspective,” the event was organized in collaboration with the Federal College of Education, Yola.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Ali Mamman Shuaib, Governor Fintiri emphasized the scarcity of Arabic and Islamic studies teachers in the country, underscoring the need for collaboration to strengthen the education system effectively.
In his keynote address, Vice Chancellor of the Federal University, Kashere, Professor Umar Pate discussed the theme of the conference, noting that people often take peace, health, and freedom for granted despite their immense benefits.
He highlighted how the persistent rise in insecurity has hindered the country’s growth and development.
According to him, understanding Nigeria’s unique context is crucial for implementing measures that foster peace and progress.
Professor Pate further added that Islam is a religion of peace, not violence, and urged Muslims in Nigeria, a multi-religious country, to exhibit peaceful actions toward both fellow Muslims and non-Muslims.
In a goodwill message, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Abubakar Sa’id the third, represented by Professor Shafiu Abdullahi, commended the organizers and reminded participants of their vital role in promoting peace and stability in the nation.
Other notable speakers included Professor Ibrahim Umar, Vice Chancellor of Modibbo Adama University, who chaired the occasion, Professor Musa Adesina, National President of NATAIS, Dr. Abubakar Sadik Bello, Dean of the School of Sciences, who represented the Chief Host and Provost of the Federal College of Education, Yola, Dr. Muhammed Degereji.
They all lauded the conference theme as apt and urged Islamic scholars to actively promote peace.
They also pointed out that the papers presented during the conference would provide solutions to challenges faced by the Muslim community across the country.
They called on the government to adequately equip the military and paramilitary forces to enhance their operational effectiveness.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee and Chairman of the Muslim Council, Adamawa State Chapter, Malam Gambo Jika, noted that the event would further advance the cause of Islam and strengthen the activities of Muslims in the country.
The event featured several highlights, including the presentation of an honorary award of excellence to Governor Fintiri, Membership conferment and an award of excellence to Professor Umar Pate, the presentation of fellowships and awards of excellence to NATAIS members.
Others are the launch of journals, as well as Quranic readings.
