MSSN LAGOS INAUGURATES NEW LEADERSHIP, SEEKS STRONGER SECURITY, EDUCATION FUNDING, HIJAB RIGHTS ENFORCEMENT

The Muslim Students' Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Area Unit (MSSN Lagos), has called on the government to strengthen security, increase investment in education and ensure full enforcement of court rulings protecting the rights of Muslim female students to wear the hijab in public schools.

The appeal was made by the newly inaugurated Amir of the society, Dr. Ajibola Salami, during a press briefing at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Alausa, Ikeja.

Speaking on behalf of the new executive, Salami said the leadership transition coincided with the beginning of the Islamic New Year, 1448AH, describing the occasion as a symbol of renewal, purposeful leadership and a renewed commitment to service.

He said the new administration assumed office at a time of severe economic challenges marked by rising education costs, increasing youth unemployment and widespread financial hardship, which he noted had made access to quality education and economic opportunities more difficult for many young Nigerians.

While commending the Federal Government for introducing the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), Salami said student loans alone would not address the challenges confronting the education sector.

He urged the government to increase funding for educational infrastructure, research and innovation, while expanding scholarship and bursary programmes to support more students.

On insecurity, the society expressed concern over the continued threats posed by kidnapping, terrorism and banditry despite ongoing efforts by security agencies, warning that the situation continues to undermine national development and threaten the safety of students.

Salami condemned criminal activities carried out in the name of religion, stressing that Islam unequivocally rejects terrorism, kidnapping and all forms of violence.

He called for the establishment of special courts to handle terrorism, kidnapping and banditry cases to ensure speedy prosecution, alongside the deployment of advanced technology-driven security systems and improved protection for schools and student communities nationwide.

Addressing religious freedom, the society demanded strict implementation of court judgments affirming the right of Muslim female students to wear the hijab in public schools.

Salami lamented that despite existing legal protections, reports of harassment and restrictions against Muslim female students persist in some institutions.

"Our administration will prioritise educational advancement, youth empowerment, leadership development, mentorship and the protection of the rights and welfare of Muslim students across Lagos State," he said.

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, MSSN Lagos urged political actors to conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns and encouraged Nigerian youths to participate actively in the democratic process through voter registration and civic engagement.

The society reaffirmed its commitment to promoting educational excellence, defending religious freedom and fostering responsible citizenship among young Nigerians.