From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Women’s Wing of the Nawair-ud-Deen Society of Nigeria (NUDS), held its annual Mothers’ Day celebration at the Kwara State Government House Banquet Hall, bringing together notable personalities from across the country.
The event focused on the vital role of mothers in Islam and society, emphasising the need for increased support for women and children.
Prominent figures at the event included Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Religion (Islam), Alhaji Ibrahim Danmaigoro, and the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Opeyemi O. Afolashade.
In her address, the National Chairperson of the NUDS Women’s Wing, Alhaja Muibat Folashade Aribidesi, expressed appreciation to attendees and highlighted the importance of empowering women as role models.
She reaffirmed the wing’s commitment to promoting Islamic values, supporting youth and women, and addressing key family issues.
Alhaja Aribidesi stressed the significant role mothers play in shaping society, citing the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) to illustrate the impact of a righteous mother on her family and the broader community.
The event recognized women who have made remarkable contributions to Islam and humanity, honoring them as “Iconic Mothers in Islam.”
Discussions at the celebration focused on family security, children’s welfare, and education.
Alhaja Aribidesi, also announced plans to establish a Muslim orphanage in Ilorin and a vocational center to train widows and underprivileged women in various crafts, encouraging participants to support these initiatives through donations.
The National President of the Society, Alhaji Rasheed Olayinka Yussuf, praised the global recognition of motherhood and its critical role in human development.
He congratulated the honorees for their dedication to nurturing the younger generation and supporting their families despite limited resources.
Alhaji Yussuf urged the NUDS Women’s Wing to continue organizing skill acquisition workshops, capacity-building training, and empowerment programs aimed at improving the living standards of women, mothers, and widows within the community.
He also commended the leadership of the National Amirah, Alhaja Muyibat Aribidesi, for her exceptional performance since assuming office.
Governor AbdulRazaq, through his representative, reiterated his administration’s commitment to collaborating with religious groups to advance the state.
He called on parents, especially mothers, to intensify their efforts in raising their children and promised continued support for women’s empowerment initiatives.
In her lecture on “Generational Influence: Unveiling the Power of a Devoted Mother,” Professor Mulkah Ahmed, highlighted the sacrifices and dedication of mothers as crucial to the well-being of future generations.
She called for greater public support for initiatives that empower women.
The event concluded with a special prayer for all mothers, seeking Allah’s blessings for their health, patience, wisdom, and reward in Jannah (Paradise).