The Ogun State chapter of the Pure Heart Islamic Foundation of Nigeria (PHF) has urged Muslim youth to embrace resilience and leadership while remaining grounded in their Islamic identity amid the competing ideas, values and narratives confronting the younger generation.
The call was made at the Pure Heart Annual Accountability Conference (PAAC), an annual gathering designed to promote accountability, transparency, reflection and strategic direction within the organisation.
The conference, with the theme: ‘Resilience in Turbulence’, brought together members, representatives, guests and stakeholders from various local branches of PHF across Ogun State and featured presentations, administrative and financial reports, discussions, fundraising activities and recognition of outstanding achievements.
In his welcome address, the outgoing coordinator of the Foundation, Mall. Ismail Olanrewaju Olabode, said the theme was particularly relevant to the challenges facing young Muslims in an age of rapid social and technological change.
Olabode said young people were increasingly exposed to competing ideas, values, cultures and narratives through social media and other platforms, making it necessary for Muslims to remain grounded in their faith.
He said resilience went beyond surviving difficult times, stressing that it involved remaining firm upon the truth while navigating them. According to him, this required knowledge, sound understanding of Islam, strong character and an unwavering connection with Allah.
Olabode said PHF had, therefore, prioritised initiatives aimed at educating, mentoring and equipping young Muslims, citing its AMPAL (Ambassadors of Muslim Prefects and Leaders) programme, Pre-BECE initiative, Teachers’ Day activities and International He said the programmes, which include leadership development, career guidance, Islamic education, academic support and mentorship, were designed to build people, strengthen communities and contribute to the development of the Ummah.