The Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT) has significantly expanded its reach with the formal inauguration of a new branch in the Iba area of Lagos State. This strategic addition brings the total number of NASFAT branches worldwide to an impressive 215, marking a milestone in the society's growth and community outreach efforts.
Ceremony and Structural Significance
The inauguration ceremony, held last weekend in Iba, was conducted under the theme: ‘Reviving The Light of Ihsan: The Role of Organisations In Excellence, Accountability And Community Renewal’. The event was attended by key officials from the NASFAT Zonal Coordinating Council (NAZOCC).
Addressing the gathering, Moruf Ajiroba, the NASFAT Vice President II and Chairman of NAZOCC, detailed the society's operational framework. He explained that NASFAT functions through a three-tier structure: the national executive, zonal executives, and local branches.
He emphasized that any new location starts as a group and must complete a developmental phase, which typically lasts between one to two years, before it can qualify for branch status. This period allows members to fully grasp the organisation's operations and expectations.
"What we did yesterday was the induction. Today is the ceremonial aspect, where we present them with their staff of office and certificate of inauguration," Ajiroba stated.
Privileges of Branch Status and Leadership Mandate
Ajiroba highlighted the new privileges that come with branch status. Unlike groups, a fully inaugurated branch gains the right to nominate members for zonal and national executive positions. Furthermore, they receive authorization to acquire property for the society's use.
"Now that they are a full-fledged branch of NASFAT, they can look around if they see any property they want to buy and we give them such approval. They also enjoy all other privileges that a group does not have," he stressed.
The Chairman of the newly inaugurated Iba branch, Ustaz Mubashiru Ayinde, shared the unique story behind its formation. He revealed that the branch was established independently, deviating from the common practice where new groups typically emerge from an existing branch.
"The aspiration to establish this Asalatu in the Iba axis has been nurtured since 2014," Ayinde said. He disclosed his long-standing affiliation with NASFAT, having joined in 1996 with membership number 1407 and previously serving as an Arabic and Islamic studies teacher at the headquarters. He pledged to lead with integrity, dedication, and a sincere commitment to the society's collective mission.
A Call for Excellence and Sustainable Community Impact
The guest lecturer, Imam AbdulGaniy Raji, who serves as the NASFAT National Da’wah Officer, charged the members and executives to strive for excellence and make a tangible impact in their community. He reminded them that NASFAT was established to promote Islamic excellence among the Ummah.
He urged the leadership to create platforms for teaching Islamic knowledge while also focusing on empowering members through innovation and sustainable economic initiatives.
"NASFAT is more than an Asalatu group; it is set up to bridge some gaps which include promoting Islamic and western education," Imam Raji explained. "We also need to provide a platform for members to be independent through sustainable empowerment, like going into farming etc., as a means to liberate them from poverty. This will, in turn, be beneficial to the society as the impact we are making in their lives."
The inauguration of the Iba branch underscores NASFAT's ongoing commitment to spiritual growth, community development, and the economic empowerment of its members across Nigeria and the globe.
