By Adeola Badru

Islamic scholars have called on Nigerian Muslim youths to resist moral erosion and ideological pressures fueled by globalisation and the digital age, warning that unchecked exposure to foreign values and online influences could weaken their faith.

The call was made by Sheikh Hammid Yusuf Aderemi during the closing ceremony of the 32nd edition of the Muslim Congress (TMC) National Islamic Training Programme (NITP), held at Vanguards Academy, Odosengolu, via Ijebu Ode, Ogun State.

Delivering a lecture titled “Challenges of the Contemporary Time as It Affects the Youth,” Sheikh Yusuf emphasised that young Muslims should remain steadfast, uphold Islamic morals, and align their conduct with the teachings of Islam despite modern challenges.

He drew lessons from the eras of Prophet Musa (AS) and Prophet Ibrahim (AS), highlighting how oppression, deception, and idolatry in the past diverted people from the worship of Allah. Sheikh Yusuf warned that similar ideologies today, including over-reliance on Western systems and the belief that success can only be achieved through migration, continue to challenge Muslim values.

“Muslims must renew their commitment to Tawheed, worship none besides Allah, and place complete reliance on Him as the sole controller of human destiny,” he said.

The Amir of TMC, Alhaji Taiwo AbdulWasi’i Bangbala, commended the more than 2,000 delegates who participated across the Ogun campsite, Edo State, the Federal Capital Territory, and Oyo State. He urged participants to reflect the discipline and values learned during the camp in their daily lives. He also singled out Mr AbdulHakeem Jumah of Ado-Odo/Ota, Ogun State, for commendation for selflessly maintaining the camp environment.

The closing ceremony featured the presentation of prizes to winners of the National Qur’anic Recitation Competition, aimed at promoting Qur’anic memorisation and preserving the teachings of Islam. Abdul Sanur Adebayo of Ondo State emerged first, Ukba Abdulakeem of Ogun State came second, and Saheed Abdul Rahman of Lagos State placed third.

A major highlight was the unveiling of the TMC Digital Portal, described as a one-stop platform for the organisation’s activities. Introduced by Naibul Amir Alhaji Mikail Oriolowo Animashaun and demonstrated by Ustadh AbdulAzeez Aderopo, the portal will allow members to register their data and access services online.

The programme also featured lectures, games, career talks, personality development sessions, and concluded with the inauguration of national and state leaders. Alhaji Taiwo Hassan Adeshina was returned as Amir, alongside the inauguration of Wulats and state secretaries.

The scholars’ message underscores the need for Nigerian Muslim youths to navigate modern influences while remaining rooted in Islamic teachings.