As the holy month of Ramadan nears, Muslim scholars are advocating for spiritual renewal and a conscious effort to detach from harmful practices. This message was conveyed at the yearly Pre-Ramadan Seminar in Kwara State, an event jointly organised by seven prominent Islamic organisations, including The Muslim Congress, Standard Bearers Islamic Organisation, Al Muminaat Organisation, Organisation of Thadhamunul Muslimeem, Al Khawaatul Muslimaat, and The Achiever Ambassadors Islamic Foundation.
The seminar, themed “Ramadan, Self-purification and detachment from vices,” brought together participants from across the state, aiming to spiritually and socially prepare Muslims for the observance.
In his keynote address, Associate Professor Hamza AbdulRaheem from Al-Hikmah University described Ramadan as a significant period for Muslims, intended to cultivate discipline, patience, and devotion among believers. He highlighted the Prophet Muhammad's (SAW) saying that fasting during Ramadan with sincere faith and pure intention leads to the forgiveness of sins.
AbdulRaheem emphasised that Ramadan's primary purpose is spiritual purification and drawing closer to Allah, noting the immense rewards associated with fasting during this month.
However, the scholar cautioned against the misuse of social media, particularly during Ramadan. He acknowledged that while social media can be a source of beneficial Islamic content, such as lectures and Quranic recitations, it can also be used for impermissible purposes.
He raised concerns about individuals who observe the fast but simultaneously engage in sinful online activities, like viewing immoral content. He warned that such actions could diminish the rewards of their fast.
Muslims were urged to actively avoid online content that contradicts the spirit of Ramadan. AbdulRaheem advised believers to seek out content that strengthens their faith, engage with platforms discussing Islam, read and listen to the Quran, and benefit from uplifting speeches, rather than consuming content that could corrupt their faith or negatively influence others, especially children.
During the seminar, Engr. Ariyo Bashir Olalekan, State Coordinator of the Zakat and Sadaqah Foundation and Chairman of the Organising Committee, discussed the importance of Zakat and Waqf, particularly in relation to Ramadan.
Olalekan explained that Zakat is a fundamental pillar of Islam, representing a divine right of the poor within the wealth of the affluent. He clarified that Zakat is not voluntary charity but an obligatory duty.
He stated that for the year 2026, the Nisab (minimum threshold) for wealth is approximately ₦12.5 million based on gold and about ₦1.7 million based on silver. Muslims whose wealth meets or exceeds these amounts are required to pay 2.5% of their wealth as Zakat.
He also defined Waqf as an Islamic endowment where an asset is permanently dedicated for Allah's sake, with its proceeds used for charitable purposes. Such endowments, which can include properties or other assets, can support the donor's family, maintain the endowment, and fund various charitable initiatives, providing continuous reward for the donor.
Olalekan further elaborated on the spiritual connection between Ramadan and Zakat, noting that acts of worship during the holy month yield multiplied rewards. He mentioned that voluntary acts during Ramadan are equivalent to obligatory acts performed at other times, and performing an obligatory act like Zakat during Ramadan significantly magnifies its reward, provided the intention is sincere.
He stressed that sincerity of intention is crucial for the acceptance of deeds. When Zakat is paid purely for Allah's sake, with devotion, the spiritual benefits are immense.
Olalekan concluded by highlighting that paying Zakat during Ramadan not only benefits the individual but also has a profound social impact, offering essential relief, food, and healthcare to many needy Muslims during a critical period. He encouraged Muslims to embrace Zakat and Waqf as integral components of Islamic teachings that promote social justice, compassion, and collective responsibility.
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