Exclusive: Nigerian scholar urges Muslims to seek divine intervention as economic downturn bites
Nigeria continues to struggle with its economic downturn, a call has gone to Muslims to return to Allah in repentance while hoping that the current challenge will become a thing of the past soon.
Dr. Kamaludeen Ajijolakewu, Chief Imam of Alhaji Yahaya Sanni Central Mosque, Ilorin, Nigeria, made this call during his Friday Jumah sermon entitled “Solutions to economic hardship.”
The Imam explained that economic hardship is part of the trials of Allah and no one is capable of reviving it but Him.
He stressed that trials of Allah, be it economic or not, are normal and are usually used to test the believers and in some cases, to strengthen those who may be struggling with their commitment and faith.
The Imam stressed that such trials test believers’ faith and resilience, sometimes strengthening their commitment.
Latest figures from the statistics office indicated that Nigeria’s inflation rate jumped in September for the first time in three months, advancing to 32.70% in annual terms from 32.15% in August. This has added to the economic challenges facing my homes, especially the poor.
To overcome these challenges, Dr. Ajijolakewu advised Muslims to spend wisely, avoid extravagance, help to those in need, lower expectations, and diversify their income sources.
He also urged leaders to facilitate ease and appealed to the faithful to remain thankful to Allah irrespective of their situations.
Following the sermon, Dr. Ajijolakewu led the congregation in a two-rakah prayer, seeking divine guidance and relief from the economic downturn
