Alumni associations have been identified as key drivers of unity across ethnic divides and contributors to national development.
This formed part of discussions at the 2026 National Summit and 20th Scholarship Presentation of the University of Ibadan Muslim Graduates’ Association, held at the University of Ibadan Central Mosque.
Speaking on the theme, “The Role of an Ideal Alumni Body in Nation Building,” a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Defence, Training School Administrators and Teachers, Dr Salau Folaranmi, noted that alumni associations remain one of the few platforms where individuals from diverse ethnic, cultural, and religious backgrounds unite under a shared identity rooted in their alma mater.
Dr Folaranmi described alumni groups as powerful instruments for strengthening social cohesion and national integration.
Also speaking on the topic, “Islamic Ethics and National Development,” Prof Afiz Oladosu of the Department of Arabic and Islamic Studies, University of Ibadan, stressed that forgiveness is fundamental to national development.
Prof Oladosu who explained that true forgiveness must involve letting go completely, noted that such values are essential for building a peaceful and progressive society.
Prof. Oladosu further urged members of UIMGA to uphold and reflect Islamic principles in their daily lives.
Making his online presentation on the topic, “Digital Literacy and Youth Empowerment”,a Hungary based Digital Finance Expert, Dr. Ibrahim Hammed, urged those in leadership positions and society at large to find ways of harnessing youths ideas and potentials in the digital space to aid the country’s economic development.
Two other discussants, the Vice Chancellor, Summit University, Offa, Kwara State, Professor Musa Aibinu and a Peace and Strategy Expert, Professor Tajudeen Akanji, called for effective and strategic orientation for youths in line with emerging global realities.
The Chairman on the occasion, who was a former Secretary to Oyo state Government, Chief Bayo Oyero, commended the association for its contributions and encouraged members to sustain their commitment to impactful initiatives.
Earlier, the National President of UIMGA, Alhaji Mojeed Imran, highlighted the significance of the summit, noting that it serves as a platform for intellectual engagement, mentorship, and community development.
Alhaji Imran also disclosed that 21 undergraduate students were awarded scholarships of one hundred and fifty thousand naira each to support their academic pursuits.
The beneficiaries expressed appreciation to the association for the gesture and pledged to make good use of the opportunity.
Among eminent personalities present at the summit include Dean, School of Law Fountain University Osogbo, Osun state, former National President of UIMGA, Professor Raheed Aderinoye, Wife of former Deputy Governor of Oyo state, Professor Hamdalat Olaniyan and Pensioners FM General Manager, Dr Babatunde Tiamiyu.
