By Sayo Alagbe
Yesterday, Saturday, October 19, 2024, the famous The Hall, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso played host to the grand finale of the 23rd Maolud Nabyy, an annual event organized by Professor Rasaq Olátúndé ROM Kalilu, the incumbent Vice Chancellor, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State.
The annual programme, which attracted a large and diverse audience, saw attendance from representatives of the Soun of Ogbomoso, His lmperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege 111, eminent scholars, lslamic organizations, a representative of the state governor, and people from all walks of life. The event theme, “Tranquility In Socio-economic Reality” focused on addressing the harsh realities of the country’s economic struggles.
Professor Tunde Salawu, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Emmanuel Alayande University of Education, Oyo, chaired the occasion while the two eminent speakers, Professor Muftau Oyedapo Rauf from Ladoke Akintola University of Technology and Dr. Abdulwahab Danladi Shittu from University of llorin delivered insightful speeches that delved into the current state of the Nigeria economy, where many citizens, particularly the poor and the middle class, are grappling with hunger, poverty, and generational hardship. They highlighted that the nation, given its present economic turmoil, now ranks among the highest in poverty rates globally. They said this, resulting widespread despair, has led to a surge in criminal activities such as housebreaking, internet fraud (Yahoo-Yahoo), rituals, and rampant drug abuse.
The speakers offered a faith-based approach to overcoming these challenges, urging the audience to place their trust in God, refrain from sinful behavior, and live pious lives. They stressed that abandoning corrupt practices and embracing righteousness could open the doors to divine blessings, such as rain and fertile land for agricultural production, which would alleviate hunger.
Moreover, the professors/speakers emphasized the importance of teaching values and morals at home. They urged parents to instill these principles in their children, encouraging them to avoid theft and other corrupt activities. They also called on the government to promote mechanized agriculture as a means of combating the pervasive hunger and poverty.
The programme concluded on a celebratory note with the presentation of cash gifts to winners of the various Quranic competitions held before and during the event, marking a rewarding end to an insightful and thought-provoking gathering.