A Muslim group in Nigeria is using sports as a way to combat insecurity and social vices in the country. The group Nasrul-lahi-li Fathi Society of Nigeria (NASFAT) has organized a youth games program that aims to engage and empower young people from different backgrounds and affiliations.
The program started on September 28 and has attracted about 1,000 participants nationwide. They compete in various sporting events such as football, volleyball, chess, table tennis, and athletics at the Fountain University in Osogbo, Osun State.
The president of the NASFAT youth wing, Kabir Raji, said the program’s main goal is to use sports as a tool to foster unity, promote physical activity, and reduce negative social behaviors such as crime and drug use among young people.
He said that sports can also help to prevent Islamic radicalism, which has been a major cause of insecurity and violence in some parts of the country. He said that engaging young Muslims in sports can expose them to positive values and ideals that can counter the influence of extremist groups.
“We have had so much trouble around Muslim communities because most of the Muslim youths do not pick an interest in sports. But we believe engaging them in sporting activities at the grassroots, especially in the far north, where we have NASFAT branches with several sporting activities, will take them away from idleness. When you are not idle, you will have the opportunity to grow, to shun social vices, including radicalism, which people are easily lured into due to idleness,” he said.
He added that the program also allows young people to showcase their talents and skills and interact with their peers from different regions and cultures. He said the program is open to members and non-members of NASFAT and other faiths.
He appealed to the government and other stakeholders to support the initiative and invest more in sports development in the country. He said that sports can be a catalyst for social change and economic growth and a source of entertainment and joy for millions of Nigerians.
The vice-chancellor of Fountain University, Professor Ramota Karim, commended NASFAT for its foresight and innovation. She said that sports can play a vital role in enhancing students’ academic performance and well-being. She also said that sports can contribute to peace-building and conflict resolution in the society.
She urged the participants to exhibit good sportsmanship and discipline during the program. She encouraged them to pursue their dreams and aspirations through hard work and dedication.
The NASFAT youth games program is part of the group’s efforts to promote Islamic values and principles in society. The group, which was founded in 1995, has over one million members in Nigeria and abroad. It organizes various activities such as prayer sessions, charity works, education programs, and social events.
The program is expected to end on October 6 with an award ceremony for the winners and outstanding performers. The organizers hope the program will inspire more young people to embrace sports for personal development and social transformation.
Source: Tribune Online
