On January 28, 2025, a symposium in honor of Ustadh Muhammad Fethullah Gulen, the late Turkish Islamic scholar, cleric, and philanthropist, was held at the Lagos State University (LASU).
Organized by the Arabic and Islamic Studies Units, Faculty of Arts, in collaboration with NUSRET Educational and Cultural Co. Ltd, the event celebrated the enduring contributions of Fethullah Gulen to Islam, humanity, and education. Themed “Ustadh Muhammad Fethullah Gulen: Humanity, Ideology and Service,” the symposium attracted prominent Islamic scholars, academia, and students for an enriching discussion on Gulen’s impactful life and legacy.
Prof. Kudus Amuni, in his welcome address, urged attendees to actively engage in the debates and appreciate the insights offered throughout the event.
Mr. Huseyin Selvi, Director of NUSRET Nigeria, officially opened the symposium, emphasizing that the occasion was designed to honor Ustadh Gulen’s selfless humanitarian work and contributions to Islam. He encouraged participants to emulate Gulen’s approach to Da’wah and humanitarian service, focusing on empathy for others.
Prof. Ibiyemi Ọlatunji-Bello, Vice-Chancellor of LASU, represented by Prof. Ayotunde Ayodele, highlighted the importance of understanding the interconnectedness of ideology, humanity, and service. She stressed that these forces define how individuals interact with the world and are critical to building a better society.
The keynote speaker, Prof. Amidu Olalekan Sanni, Chief Imam of LASU Community Mosque, addressed the three major challenges the world faces: poverty, ignorance, and lack of empowerment. He remarked that humanity transcends religious and social barriers, stressing that positive change requires collective effort despite the difficulties involved.
Guest speakers included Dr. Abdulhameed B. Yusuf from the University of Ilorin, who discussed Ustadh Gulen’s biography and his contributions to Turkey, Islam, and society. Prof. Jamiu Oluwatoki from LASU examined the role of education in promoting universal values, describing Gulen as a towering intellectual, educator, and philanthropist who promoted peace without violence.
The third speaker, Prof. Musa Ismail from the University of Lagos, represented by Dr. Bashir Abdulraheem, advocated for religious tolerance as a means of ensuring peaceful coexistence.
The event also featured an interactive session moderated by Dr. Saheed Timehin, showcasing the philanthropic efforts of the NEAR Foundation, which supports education, health, and social services.
The symposium concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Alhaji Ya’qub Allagan, the presentation of certificates to special guests and participants, and a group photograph. Distinguished Islamic scholars from Lagos and Ilorin, including Sheikh Ridwanullahi Sunusi and Sheikh Maroof Sanusi, graced the occasion, making it a memorable tribute to Ustadh Muhammad Fethullah Gulen and his legacy of service to humanity.