Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the holiest city for Muslims. It is a long pious journey taken by Muslim Faithfuls to cleanse their souls of all earthly sins, which connotes both the outward act of a journey after death and the inward act of good intentions.
The State Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria, Olóyè Akolawole Shoremi, has however showered encomium on the Representative of Ifo/Ewekoro federal consitituency, Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka, for a pilgrimage sponsorship extended to the young people of Ewekoro Local Government.
Delivering an opening speech at the Ramadan Lecture organized by the youth Council Branch and held at the Local Government Secretariat of Ewekoro on Thursday April 4, 2024, Shoremi who was represented by the State Vice-Chairman for Ogun Central Senatorial District — Com. Toyo Joseph — stated Ramadan as a time of reflection, devotion, and spiritual growth for Muslim Faithfuls around the world. “It is a month of fasting, prayer, and charity. And it is also a time for us to deepen our understanding of our role in society and nation—building.
“As young people, let me remind you that we are the trustees of the future of this country. We have the energy, the creativity, and the passion to make desired changes in our communities. It is therefore crucial that we continue to harness our potential and work together towards building a more prosperous Ogun State that we all can remain proud of.
The peak of excitement at the Lecture tagged “Impact of Youths in Nation Building: The Islamic Perspective.” was during the call—in session and announcement of an Hajj sponsorship by one of the Key Sponsors of the Ramadan Lecture, Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka.
Reacting to this unusual gesture, Shoremi referred the sponsorship as an opportunity for spiritual growth, knowledge acquisition, leadership development, and community impact by its beneficiary towards guiding and inspiring other young leaders in their journey of faiths. He commended the continued and unflinching dedication of Isiaka to the interests of the youth constituency in Ogun State at large, citing his active representation at the House of Representatives as being youthful, visionary, and outstanding.
The Lecture was well attended by the youths of Ewekoro Local Government, representatives of the Local Government Authority, Royal Fathers and other Stakeholders.