Leaders of the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN) have declared their steadfast support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This affirmation came during the recent 2025 MUSWEN General Assembly held in Gbongan, Osun State.
A Successful Assembly and Presidential Endorsement
Alhaji Murisiku Abidemi Siyanbade, who chaired the event's organising committee, described the assembly as a resounding success. The highlight was the representation of President Tinubu by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Isiaka Gboyega Oyetola, who delivered the President's message appealing for national support for economic reforms.
Siyanbade recalled that MUSWEN's backing for Tinubu predates his election. The group hosted him at a town hall meeting at Ibadan's Jogor Centre on December 11, 2022, where Southwest Muslim leaders endorsed his presidential ambition. They have since issued statements thanking God for his victory and were received by the President in October 2023.
The MUSWEN leader stated that the body, which is the umbrella for Muslim leaders and faithful across Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, and Oyo states, stands firmly with the President. They acknowledge his "genuine efforts" to revive the economy and industrialise Nigeria, viewing current security challenges as temporary.
Appeal for N2 Billion Empowerment Fund
A key appeal from the assembly was directed at the Federal Government. MUSWEN is seeking support to raise a N2 billion fund for economic empowerment projects, scholarships, and training in emerging fields like artificial intelligence and robotics for youths across the six Southwest states.
Siyanbade revealed that significant pledges were received at the event. He has conveyed the appeal to President Tinubu through Minister Oyetola and remains hopeful that contributions from the President and the Minister will help meet the target. The organisation's bank details remain public on social media for further donations.
The immediate plan for MUSWEN includes relocating its secretariat from Iwo Road to a over 5,000 square metre parcel of land in GRA, Agodi. The current building will be converted for commercial use to generate rental income.
Security, Unity, and Political Outlook
On national security, Siyanbade used a Yoruba proverb to illustrate the gravity of the situation: "The witch cried yesterday and the child died today. Who does not know the link between the two?" He called for bridging gaps between Christian and Muslim leaders, whom he held responsible for triggering many issues.
He expressed confidence in President Tinubu's diplomatic wisdom and divine guidance. He also suggested that some political actors, unhappy with Tinubu's broad acceptance, especially in the North, might be inciting trouble and using international connections to portray Nigeria negatively.
Regarding the fact that all six governors in the Southwest are currently Christians, Siyanbade said Muslims in the region are not disturbed. He cited the Quranic teaching that God alone grants power. While MUSWEN would be happiest with Muslim governors, he noted that past Muslim leaders have also denied rights, just as some Christian governors have upheld them. The focus, therefore, is on engaging leaders to demand rights peacefully, as seen in the handling of the hijab issue.
MUSWEN remains active in civic education through its Political and Good Governance Committee, led by Prof. Rashid Aderinoye. The committee sensitises Muslims to obtain their PVCs, vote according to their conscience, and reject monetary inducements from politicians.
Gratitude to Dignitaries and Delegates
The successful assembly owed thanks to several dignitaries. These included the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Dr Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, who fixed the event date and has already scheduled next year's edition for Ibadan. The host, Dr Abdur-Rauf 'Wale Babalakin, provided the venue and accommodation. Nasarawa State Governor, Alhaji Abdullahi Audu Sule, delivered the keynote address and made a generous donation.
Also appreciated were Osun State Governor, Senator Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke, who provided support despite not attending, and Niger State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago. The presence of MUSWEN President, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, and pioneer Executive Secretary, Prof. Dawud Noibi, 93, was particularly noted.
The event was attended by delegates and royal fathers from across all six Southwest states, culminating in what was described as the most successful MUSWEN General Assembly to date.
