By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal
An Islamic Cleric, Malam Mukhtar Isale-Koto, of the Musliu Alkali Mosque in Ilorin, has advised Nigerians that shunning corruption is a collective responsibility for every citizen.
Isale-Koto made the call while delivering a lecture at the 2026 Reunion Conference and Honours’ Day organised by the Obafemi Awolowo University Muslim Graduates’ Association (UNIFEMGA).
The theme of the lecture is entitled: “Rebuilding National and International Confidence Through Leadership and Followership Reforms.”
He said that Nigerians and their leaders must uphold justice, equity, and fairness, while calling for transparency in all dealings.
The cleric urged Nigerians to examine their own actions, while reminding Muslims that Allah will hold them accountable for their deeds.
Also speaking, Prof. Yusuf Olaolu-Ali (SAN), observed that Nigerians need personal orientation in imbibing deep family values.
He urged Nigerians to shun corruption and embrace a culture of integrity, while calling on parents to model good character for their children to emulate later in life.
“We need to go back to the basics and revamp our values from the family level. If that happens, the society will benefit from it,” he said.
Also speaking, Alhaji AbdulRahman Balogun, an executive member of UNIFEMGA, said that the association is an assemblage of Muslim graduates of the Obafemi Awolowo University aimed at boosting brotherhood.
“The association inculcates unity among those in the country and in diaspora. This is a foremost Muslim gathering in Nigeria that is formidable, cohesive and unifying,” he said.
Earlier in his address, Alhaji Muhammad Busari, the National President of UNIFEMGA, explained that the association is marking its 16th anniversary.
He described the theme of the programme as apt, noting that the concept of trust lies at the heart of sound leadership and good governance.
Quoting the Holy Quran, Busari said, “indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due, and when you judge between people, to judge with justice,” he said.
He appealed to leaders to exude confidence through competence, disciplined leadership, excellence, and integrity.
Busari noted that the 2026 honours are meant to celebrate outstanding members who have distinguished themselves by imbibing these qualities in their various spheres of influence.
“A good legacy is built intentionally through service, humility, and integrity. It is measured not by the wealth you may amass, but by the lives you touch, the institutions you strengthen, and the values that you uphold,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the association awarded 28 members for excellence and service to humanity. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yetunde Fatungase
