By
Abdul-Kadir Abdullah
The Edo State chapter of the Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria (MMPN) has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the Edo State Council for Islamic Affairs (EDSCIA) to promote Islamic activities and enhance the image of Muslims in the state.
This was the highlight of a meeting held recently at the EDSICA secretariat in Benin City.
The President of the MMPN, Edo State chapter, Abdul-Kadir Abdullah in his opening remarks, emphasized the organisation's long-standing presence, officially registered in 1997, with a recent revitalization of its Edo State chapter in January of this year. He highlighted the MMPN's commitment to organizing its members across the state and leveraging their active presence in the media to advance the cause of Islam.
Referencing the MMPN's constitution, Abdullah pointed out that Article 5, Sections A and C explicitly empower the body to collaborate with other Muslim organizations to promote Islamic activities. He underscored the critical role of EDSICA as a key stakeholder in this endeavour, expressing gratitude that Muslim media professionals in the state are now highly active and eager to use their platforms to promote Islam, particularly within Edo State.
According to him, "We are open to collaboration and partnership with other Muslim organizations to advance the cause of Islam in the state,"
He expressed hope for continued engagement with EDSICA to achieve mutual goals, including the promotion of Islam, EDSICA's activities, and the positive contributions of Muslim leaders in society.
Responding to the MMPN delegation, the chairman of the Edo State Council for Islamic Affairs (EDSCIA), Alhaji Abdulazeez Igbinidu, warmly welcomed the initiative. He provided an overview of the structure and objectives of EDSICA, noting its affiliation with the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs under the leadership of the Sultan of Sokoto. Alhaji Igbinidu explained that EDSICA comprises a 23-member executive council representing all senatorial districts of Edo State and various Muslim organizations.
He emphasized that the primary objective of EDSICA is to promote Islamic affairs within the state and to serve as the official liaison between the Muslim community and the government on matters concerning Islam. Alhaji Igbinidu expressed delight at the existence of organizations like the MMPN, recognizing the vital role of the media in informing the public and supporting the council's activities.
He noted, "I'm very happy to see that organisation like yours exists because anything you are doing media is very important, The media is the one that can really tell the public what you are doing. At the same time, they can also bring some assistance to the council and all the others."
Alhaji Igbinidu welcomed the prospect of collaboration, highlighting the mutual benefits that could arise from the partnership.
He urged all Muslims, especially media practitioners, to actively promote Islam, showcasing the community's positive attributes as law-abiding and productive citizens.
He also shared EDSICA's plans for establishing a permanent office and expressed hope that the collaboration with MMPN could provide support in this regard.
Both the chairman and the president expressed optimism for a fruitful partnership that would contribute significantly to the advancement of Islam and the positive representation of Muslims in Edo State, making a commitment to future engagements.
