Ilorin: An Islamic scholar, Malam Ibrahim Agboola-Gambari, has pointed out that a lack of knowledge is one of the primary challenges facing contemporary Muslims in Nigeria. Agboola-Gambari shared his insights on this issue while speaking with newsmen at the 6th Graduation Ceremony of the Madaris Daril Qur’anil Kareem Was-Sunnah for Islamic and Arabic Teaching, which took place in Ilorin. The scholar, who also serves as the proprietor of the school, emphasized the theme of ‘Challenges Facing Muslims in Our Time’ during his address.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Agboola-Gambari underscored that seeking knowledge is a fundamental duty within Islamic belief, highlighting that the first revelation in Islam was ‘Iqra’, which translates to ‘read’. He cautioned that the absence of knowledge poses significant challenges for both individuals and communities. Agboola-Gambari proposed that these challenges could be addressed by adhering to Islamic teachings and the traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (SAW).
The scholar further elaborated on the achievements of the school, which has produced 60 Quran memorisers since its inception in 2001. He noted that the 2026 graduation ceremony saw the graduation of 23 students, including 13 who have memorised the Quran. The school comprises Junior Secondary (Idaadiyyah) and Senior Secondary (Thanawiyyah) sections, attracting students from institutions such as the University of Ilorin and Kwara State Polytechnic.
During the event, another cleric, Dr. Khaleel Al-Qorowiy, addressed the audience, attributing the challenges faced by Muslims to a lack of knowledge and deviation from the path of Allah. He observed that many Muslims have become weak in worship and religious practice, often relying on amulets promoted by misguided religious leaders. Al-Qorowiy warned that without basic Islamic knowledge, individuals may engage in practices like prayer, fasting, or giving zakat without a proper understanding of their tenets.
Al-Qorowiy emphasized that Islam provides guidance on various aspects of life, including family, business, finance, health, and community. He noted that ignorance of these teachings can lead to marital breakdowns, unethical business practices, and susceptibility to superstition or extremist ideas. He urged Muslims to remain united and cautioned against pursuing worldly possessions at the expense of spiritual growth.