Faith & Leadership Converge At National Mosque Iftar Colloquium
By ABDUL AHMED (A. A.) RUFUS
Faith and Governance Meet in Abuja
A new platform for dialogue between faith leaders and public servants emerged in Abuja as the National Mosque Abuja hosted its inaugural National Iftar and Leadership Colloquium.
The event, organised in partnership with the Federal Government Public Servant Forum, brought together government officials, religious leaders, media practitioners and other stakeholders for discussions on ethical leadership and national development.
Held during the holy month of Ramadan, the programme combined the traditional breaking of the fast with a leadership dialogue centred on integrity, accountability and responsible governance.
Traditional Leaders Represent Sultan
The gathering was convened under the spiritual leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar III.
Although the Sultan could not attend the event, he was represented by two prominent traditional rulers—the Emir of Kano, Ado Bayero, and the Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar.
Their presence reflected the role of traditional institutions in strengthening national unity and promoting ethical conduct among leaders.
Speakers at the event emphasised that religious teachings can provide valuable guidance for public officials tasked with managing national resources and responsibilities.
Media and Civil Society Participation
The event also drew participation from influential figures in the Nigerian media landscape.
Among them were the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, Jibrin Baba Ndace, and the organisation’s Head of Digital Media, Kassim Akinreti.
Also present were senior journalists, including Mojeed, former Editor-in-Chief of The Punch, alongside Islamic scholar Dr. Khaleed of the Jama’atu Nasril Islam.
Participants noted that the media plays an important role in shaping public discourse and encouraging responsible leadership.
A Platform for Ethical Reflection
The leadership colloquium focused on the importance of integrating moral values into governance and public administration.
Speakers highlighted that Ramadan serves as a powerful reminder of discipline, humility and service to others—principles that can influence leadership at all levels.
They argued that promoting integrity in public service is essential for building trust between government institutions and citizens.
According to organisers, initiatives like the National Iftar and Leadership Colloquium can help reinforce the ethical foundations needed to guide Nigeria’s development.
Prayers for Nigeria’s Progress
The event concluded with prayers for peace, unity and prosperity in Nigeria.
Participants expressed optimism that continued dialogue between religious leaders, public servants and civil society could help strengthen governance and national cohesion.
Organisers also indicated plans to sustain the initiative as an annual gathering aimed at fostering ethical leadership and encouraging collaboration across sectors.
Through such platforms, they said, Nigeria can continue to build a culture of responsibility, transparency and service to the nation.
