The University of Lagos Muslim Alumni (UMA) on Sunday called for unity and condemned violence, warning that insecurity continues to threaten lives and stability across the country.

The event, held on February 15, 2026, at the J.F. Ade Ajayi Main Auditorium, University of Lagos, Akoka, drew several dignitaries.

Among them was the Governor of Borno State, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, who was represented by his deputy, Hon. Umar Usman Kadafur; the Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, and the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engineer Noimot Salako-Oyedele.

Also present were the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board and Secretary-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede; the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos, Prof. Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola, who was represented by Olufemi Shuaib; the Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Sheikh Ridwan Jamiu; members of the Lagos State House of Assembly; and other guests.

Speaking at the lecture, themed “The Light Beyond: Guiding Our Souls to Paradise,” the President of UMA, Dr. Mumini Alao, said the association supports Nigeria’s democratic system and peaceful transfer of power through elections. He, however, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to continue improving the electoral process to ensure free and fair elections.

Turning to national security, Alao warned against foreign intervention in the country’s affairs, noting that history has shown that such actions often leave nations worse off. He said insecurity affects Nigerians of all faiths and called on citizens to unite against criminal elements, regardless of the religion they claim.

The UMA president specifically condemned Boko Haram and other groups carrying out violence in the name of religion. He said such actors do not represent Islam and their actions go against the teachings of the faith.

“We have more than two billion Muslims worldwide and the vast majority are peace-loving people,” he said, adding that those who commit violence in the name of Islam do not define the religion.

In his keynote address, Prof. Oloyede described the current security situation in Nigeria as painful and troubling. He referred to recent deadly attacks in parts of Niger, Borno, Kaduna and Kwara states, as well as renewed militant violence in other regions.

According to him, insecurity has led to displacement, fear and disruption of economic activities across the country. He said Muslims feel an additional burden when perpetrators of violence claim to act in the name of Islam.
Oloyede stressed that security is central to Islamic teachings.

He explained that Islam places strong emphasis on the protection of life, property, intellect and religion. Prohibitions against murder, theft and intoxicants, he said, are rooted in the need to safeguard society.

He also urged Muslims to act as agents of peace and to work with other Nigerians to build a country where travel, farming and worship are not overshadowed by fear. He also called for deeper moral education for young people and stronger community partnerships to prevent violence.

Earlier in the programme, Sheikh Ridwan Jamiu spoke on life, death and accountability. He reminded the audience of the temporary nature of worldly life and urged Muslims to prepare for the hereafter through righteous conduct and obedience to God.

Returning to UMA’s activities, Alao gave an update on the association’s scholarship scheme. He said the programme was introduced over three decades ago after the alumni body noticed low representation of Muslims among teaching staff at the university.
Since its inception, he said, 199 scholars have received support to pursue postgraduate studies at master’s and doctoral levels.

He appealed for more donations to expand the scheme and increase financial support for beneficiaries.

Alao also highlighted the Qur’anic recitation competition introduced at last year’s lecture. Secondary school and madrasa students were invited to compete in proper recitation of the Qur’an, with the top three winners honoured at the event.

He added that UMA distributes food items and other provisions to needy members to prepare for Ramadan.

The lecture is part of UMA’s annual efforts to prepare Muslims spiritually for the fasting month while addressing pressing national issues.