Nigeria's path to national renewal requires a fundamental shift in citizen awareness, the deployment of modern security infrastructure, and responsible electoral choices rather than reliance solely on oil revenues, federal politics, or election-day inducements. This perspective was shared by Dr. Bayonle Rasheed Akinbile, the Grand Sheikh and Murshid of the Caring and Sharing Sufi Centre; Sarafadeen Alli, an All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Oyo State; and Fatai Owoseni, a former security adviser, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The prominent figures delivered these remarks during the opening ceremony of the Caring and Sharing Sufi Centre's 37th-anniversary celebration on Sunday in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State.
What did the Sufi Centre founder say about Nigeria's challenges?
Addressing attendees under the theme "Heaven on Earth: From Paradise to Paradise, A Miracle of Your Rise in Consciousness," Dr. Akinbile described the nation as experiencing a pivotal phase marked by severe economic hardship, inflation, youth despair, widespread emigration known locally as japa, and general public frustration spanning from the northern to the southern regions.
He argued that while leaders frequently seek solutions within economic metrics, petroleum wealth, and federal corridors in Abuja, a society cannot transcend the collective awareness of its populace. Tracing the institution's origins back to its establishment in 1989, Akinbile emphasized that the centre was founded as an enduring embodiment of compassion and communal support rather than a mere physical organization.
"Nigeria's problem is not only economic, it is a problem of consciousness. When consciousness is low, we see only tribe, only religion, and only self. When consciousness rises, we see one humanity, one nation, one trust under Allah," Akinbile stated. He further urged the electorate to look past temporary financial gifts and bags of rice during polls, encouraging citizens to utilize their Permanent Voter Cards (PVC) to elect leaders who prioritize the future welfare of the younger generation.
How do political and security stakeholders view governance?
Speaking with journalists at the venue, Sarafadeen Alli maintained that the federal administration is actively working toward economic improvement, designating public safety as the nation's foremost priority, followed closely by poverty alleviation and employment generation.
"Government must provide adequate security for everyone in the state. When we emerge as the next governor, we will deploy security, we will not make use of conventional methods but apply technology in assuring that we have security," Alli remarked.
Echoing similar sentiments, Fatai Owoseni stressed that Islamic and Sufi philosophies should be practically applied to societal improvement and public welfare. He commended Akinbile for maintaining the institution for nearly four decades despite initial resistance, while urging citizens to actively engage in the political process rather than remaining detached.
Owoseni also discussed the objectives of the Oyo Lagba socio-political platform, noting that the initiative aims to dismantle godfatherism, mentor marginalized youths and women, and establish a level playing field for participation. Other notable attendees at the anniversary event included representatives of the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, who sent delegates to grace the occasion.