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… Inaugurates New Branches, Units Across LGAs In Lagos, Oyo
One of Nigeria’s foremost faith-based non-governmental organisations, The Muslim Congress (TMC) has advised the federal government to prioritise four major areas in its ongoing sectoral reform.
The Islamic organisation listed security, education, energy and healthcare as foundational to the progress and stability of the nation.
Speaking at the 28th series of her state-of-the-nation address held on Saturday, 26th October in Lagos, the Amir of the organisation, Alhaji Abdul Wasi’i Bangbala said that the current economic challenges in the country demand responsible leadership.
The state-of-the-nation address was organised by the Committee on Social Mobility, the Economy and Politics, headed by Alhaji Bangbala as the Chairman.
It coincided with the 2024 Annual National Congress of the Society held on Saturday, 26th October, at Da’wah Center, Lagos, with the theme: “Shaping the Future; Leveraging Strategic Plan and Digital Trends”, delivered by Alhaji Modupe Kadri, Chief Finance Officer, CFO, MTN.
The Amir, TMC also inaugurated a new local government and branches at the Congress, which was well attended by the national executive, selected states’ chapters, local government and branch executives.
Bangbala, while addressing one of the thematic areas of the statement titled: “Nigeria at 64: Time to Recommit to a Brighter Future”, maintained that resources must be channelled towards programmes that benefit the citizens.
Speaking further, he called for selfless, integrity-driven governance that puts citizens first, adding “The current economic challenges we face demand responsible leadership. Our government must lead by example, demonstrating fiscal responsibility and prioritizing the welfare of its people.”
Raises Concern Over Fuel Price Despite Dangote’s Market Entrance
The Muslim Congress (TMC) also expressed deep concerns about the ongoing controversy surrounding petroleum pricing in Nigeria.
TMC lamented that the citizens are yet to get succour despite Dangote Petrochemical Refinery’s recent entrance into Nigeria’s downstream petroleum market.
Declare state of emergency on Nigeria’s four refineries
To address this with utmost urgency, TMC charged the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu led-government to declare a state of emergency on Nigeria’s four refineries.
“Protracted turnaround maintenance efforts have proven ineffective; immediate action is, therefore, necessary for domestic refining capacity. Beyond the immediate concerns surrounding the Dangote refinery, we urge the government to conduct a comprehensive review of all existing issues within the petroleum sector, including the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA),” he noted.
Speaking further, Alhaji Bangbala urged the government to review and address any undue taxes or levies and ensure they do not disproportionately burden consumers.
FRSC: A Call To Rethink The Firearm Proposal
Other issues raised by The Muslim Congress (TMC) included the recent controversial bill that will allow officers of the Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC) to carry firearms while performing their duties; the rising graduate unemployment in Nigeria; boat mishaps, fuel tanker explosions; and one year of Israeli genocidal war in Gaza, among others.
Alhaji Bangbala faulted the controversial FRSC bill which recently passed for second reading at the House of Representatives, calling for a rethink
He charged government at all levels to be more concerned about building a safer society through responsible governance, not through unnecessary militarization of civilian agencies.
Gaza genocide: Take Decisive Steps Against Israel
On the massacre of Palestinians on their land by the zionist regime of Israel, The Muslim Congress charged the international community to move beyond mere condemnation and take decisive steps to hold Israel accountable for its actions.
TMC further went on to commend Nigeria for its principled stance at the UNGA79, where it bravely condemned Israel’s aggression and called for de-escalation, buttressing that now is the time for Nigeria and all world leaders to translate words into action.
Inauguration of additional LGs, Branches of TMC
At the Congress, Alhaji Bangbala also Inaugurated newly established Branches and Units of the organisation across Local Governments in Oyo and Lagos States, saying it’s a historic moment marking a new era of da’wah outreach, reaching deeper into communities and meeting the needs of a rapidly evolving society.
According to him, for over three decades, The Congress had dedicated itself to the propagation of Islamic values and serving humanity.
“However, we recognize that our presence has not been felt in many areas, leaving a gap in our mission. This realization has spurred us to expand our reach, pushing beyond existing boundaries and establishing new chapters in Lagos and Oyo.
“This strategic move will allow us to engage with diverse communities and build a stronger presence across the nation.”
