This is the second part of Sheikh Dr. Abdulqadir Salman’s Khutbah. Continuing from last week’s discussion, it’s important to emphasise that this synergy between faith and science not only enriches individual understanding but also influences broader societal progress. When Muslim scholars actively integrate scientific inquiry within an Islamic framework, they promote innovation that aligns with ethical principles derived from the Qur’an and Sunnah.
This approach encourages the community to view scientific research as a form of worship—serving both the pursuit of knowledge and the divine purpose of human existence. For instance, scientific advancements in medicine and environmental preservation can be seen as ways to fulfil Islamic obligations of caring for one’s health and maintaining the balance in Allah’s creation.
Furthermore, fostering an environment where scientific curiosity is intertwined with spiritual reflection helps dispel misconceptions that religion constrains intellectual pursuit. Instead, it underscores that seeking knowledge—be it scientific or religious—is a spiritual act that brings one closer to divine understanding.
As we advance, it remains imperative for educational institutions and religious leaders to collaboratively develop curricula and platforms that highlight these harmonious principles. Doing so will not only motivate a new generation of Muslim scientists and thinkers but also reinforce the vision of a society that upholds both spiritual integrity and scientific excellence. The Imam continues:
In essence, these verses, whether viewed through the lens of classical or modern interpretative methods, converge on the recognition that the Qur’an’s descriptions of the natural world are ultimately validated by scientific progress. This alignment calls us to appreciate the Qur’an’s divine guidance that harmonises with contemporary scientific discoveries, urging those with knowledge—scientists and believers alike—to develop a consciousness of God rooted in understanding His vast creation.
Servants of Allah, by examining the verses recited upon you, we clearly understand—without any ambiguity and by the indication of the texts as stated by the scholars—that Allah calls us, Muslims, to pay great attention to both the religious and the worldly sciences.
Brothers and sisters, brothers and sisters, after this brief and clear presentation of the sciences mentioned in the Qur’an, the important question I pose to you is: Where have we, as Muslims in Nigeria in general, and owners of religious institutes and guardians in particular, faltered?
The answer, brothers and sisters, is known to everyone. We have most severely failed in the realm of worldly sciences—and we have left most of it to followers of other religions.
The second sermon:
Brothers and sisters, Muslims of Nigeria, owners of religious institutes, and guardians of Muslim students—congratulations on the news and developments that are no secret to your ears and eyes. We are witnessing positive steps issued by the relevant authorities in the fields of education and training here: the National Universities Commission (NUC), the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), and the Nursing and Midwifery Council of Nigeria (NMCN), with gracious approval from the Ministry of Education and by the permission of His Excellency President Ahmad Bola Tinubu, implementing his Renewed Hope programme.
This initiative aims to establish scientific departments within religious institutes and Nigerian universities, including their colleges, such as the colleges of nursing, to accept certificates from the National Board for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS), with no distinction between these and other accredited certificates, including the West African Examinations Council (WAEC), National Examinations Council (NECO), and National Business and Technical Examinations Board (NABTEB).
Brothers and sisters, it is indeed a virtue recognised by those of noble virtue, and gratitude is due only to those who deserve it. We, as Muslims in Nigeria, extend our gratitude and appreciation to President Tinubu, his Vice, Kashim Shettima, as well as Dr. Maroof Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, and Hajia Suwaibat Ahmad Saheed, the Minister of State, for their approval of these directives from the relevant authorities.
Our sincere gratitude also goes to the Higher Council of NBAIS, under the wise and gracious leadership of Professor Suleiman Imam Yahuza. We deeply appreciate and thank His Eminence, Alhaji Muhammad Saad Abubakar, the Sultan of Sokoto and His Royal Highness, Alhaji Yahya Abubakar (ETSU NUPE), for their blessed support in making this project a success.
Brothers and sisters, owners of religious institutes in Nigeria, you must understand that we live in a world of crises within the society of knowledge—where everything is changing rapidly. Our Muslim youth, with all these changes, must experience transformation in both lifestyle and education. It is essential to prepare them with opportunities and tools to harness advanced technologies and sciences, which require a specific type of Muslim individual capable of adapting professionally within the field of education. This way, they will not fall behind in the technological and scientific race.
Brothers and sisters, take advantage of these blessed directives by categorising your children and students in the Arabic schools, focusing on both religious sciences and universal sciences, ensuring a bright and conscientious future for them while maintaining their Islamic identity and contributing to the development of this blessed country.
It is indeed shameful for us, as dedicated Muslims concerned with our faith’s interests and the future of our children, that only twenty Islamic institutes are registered with the National Council for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NBAIS) as scientific religious institutes, out of thousands of Islamic religious schools spread across Nigeria!
Furthermore, I urge you to create training opportunities for your senior secondary students in Islamic sciences to learn various crafts and professions, such as trade, agriculture, poultry farming, fish farming, leatherwork, soap and perfume production, and other trades. These skills will help preserve their dignity, strengthen their character, and shield their religious identity from pollution.
Inform them that Islamic knowledge does not preclude engaging in honest work; rather, it encourages the cultivation of a resilient and industrious spirit that benefits both the individual and society.
Brothers and sisters, my final appeal from this national platform is directed to the respected governmental authorities: please include the religious schools that genuinely desire and are fully prepared to establish scientific departments. These schools have been officially registered with the National Council for Arabic and Islamic Studies (NCAIS) and hold modern scientific accreditation, just as their counterparts in English-language schools in the country have.
We believe that such support, if provided, will significantly contribute to the swift development of our nation—scientifically, economically, and socially.
Brothers and sisters, indeed, “This is a reminder for those who have hearts or who listen while they are witnesses.”
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