A high-powered delegation representing the Muslim Ummah of the South-West states paid a historic courtesy visit to His RoyalHighness, the Shehu of Borno, Alhaji (Dr.) Abba Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi.
The visit, which came on the sidelines of the ongoing 40th National Qur’anic Recitation Competition, was described as a “bridge-building mission,” aimed to reinforce the bonds of brotherhood between Northern and Southern Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Asiwaju Kamal’deenAkintunde, Ogun State Coordinator of Musabaqah, noted that the visit commemorates four decades of the National Qur’anic Competition as a tool for national integration.
Key Highlights of the Visit:
*Ancestral Kinship:* The delegation received with great warmth the Shehu’s assertion that the Kanuri and Yoruba peoples share a common ancestral heritage, affirming that both groups remain affectionately bonded by history.
Constitutional Role for Monarchs:
In a significant policy pitch, the South-West delegation called on the National Assembly to prioritize a Constitutional Role for Traditional Rulers. They argued that the Shehu’s leadership in hosting the Musabaqah amidst security challenges proves that traditional institutions are vital to nation-building and peace.
Resilience of the “Home of Peace”:
The delegation lauded the Borno State Government and the Shehu for their “courage and boldness” in hosting the 40th anniversary of the competition, noting that the event’s success serves as a victory over the forces of insecurity.
“This visit is not merely ceremonial; it underscores a cardinal aim of the Musabaqah—to promote unity and brotherhood. We stand in solidarity with the people of Borno and support the constitutional empowerment of our Royal Fathers to further secure the nation,” stated Asiwaju Kamal’deenAkintunde.
The delegation included State Coordinators and officials from Lagos, Ogun, Osun, and Oyo States, representing a united front for the promotion of Qur’anic scholarship and national stability.