Islamic scholars have advised Muslims to embrace self-purification, moral discipline, and responsible conduct as preparations intensify for the holy month of Ramadan.
The guidance was delivered during the Annual Pre-Ramadan Seminar organised by a coalition of seven Islamic organisations in Kwara State. The groups include The Muslim Congress, Standard Bearers Islamic Organisation, Al-Muminaat Organisation, Organisation of Thadhamunul Muslimeem, Al-Khawaatul Muslimaat, and The Achiever Ambassadors Islamic Foundation.
The seminar, themed “Ramadan: Self-Purification and Detachment from Vices,” attracted Muslim faithful from different parts of the state. Organisers explained that the programme was designed to prepare believers spiritually, morally, and socially ahead of the fasting period.
Ramadan as a School of Discipline
Delivering the keynote address, Associate Professor Hamza AbdulRaheem of Al-Hikmah University described Ramadan as a divine training period aimed at strengthening self-control, patience, and devotion to Allah.
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According to him, fasting goes beyond abstaining from food and drink, as it is meant to refine character and deepen consciousness of Allah.
“Ramadan is a sacred period of fasting for Muslims. It teaches believers the true meaning of discipline, patience, and sincere devotion,” he said.
He quoted the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as saying that anyone who observes Ramadan with sincere faith and pure intention will have their sins forgiven, noting that the rewards attached to fasting are immense.
Warning Against Online Immorality
The scholar, however, expressed concern over the misuse of social media, particularly during the holy month.
He acknowledged that digital platforms can be beneficial when used to access Qur’anic recitations, Islamic teachings, and scholarly lectures. However, he warned that they can also become channels for moral decline.
“Some people observe the fast but engage in sinful online behaviour, including viewing immoral content. Such actions undermine the spiritual rewards of fasting,” he cautioned.
He urged Muslims to be intentional about the content they consume and share, especially during Ramadan.
“A fasting Muslim should engage with platforms that strengthen faith, encourage reflection, and promote Islamic values, rather than content that corrupts the heart or negatively influences others, particularly children,” he added.
Zakat and Waqf Emphasised
Also speaking at the event, Engr. Ariyo Bashir Olalekan, State Coordinator of the Zakat and Sadaqah Foundation and Chairman of the Organising Committee, highlighted the significance of Zakat and Waqf, especially during Ramadan.
He described Zakat as a compulsory pillar of Islam and a divinely mandated right of the poor in the wealth of the affluent.
“Zakat is not optional charity. It is an obligation and a right of the less privileged upon those Allah has blessed with wealth,” he stated.
Olalekan explained that any Muslim whose wealth reaches the Nisab and remains in their possession for one lunar year is required to pay Zakat.
“For 2026, the Nisab is estimated at about ₦12.5 million based on gold and approximately ₦1.7 million based on silver. Eligible Muslims are required to give 2.5 percent of their qualifying wealth as Zakat,” he explained.
Lasting Impact of Waqf
He further explained that Waqf refers to an Islamic endowment where assets such as land or buildings are permanently dedicated for the sake of Allah, while the proceeds are used for charitable causes.
According to him, income from Waqf can support orphans, widows, healthcare services, and other vulnerable members of society, ensuring continuous reward for the donor even after death.
Why Zakat During Ramadan Matters
Olalekan noted that Ramadan holds a special spiritual status, as acts of worship performed during the month attract multiplied rewards.
“Voluntary acts during Ramadan carry the reward of obligatory acts outside the month. When an obligatory duty like Zakat is fulfilled during Ramadan, the reward is multiplied many times over, provided it is done sincerely,” he said.
He stressed that sincerity of intention remains central to the acceptance of any act of worship.
“When Zakat is paid purely for Allah’s sake, with a heart attached to Him, the spiritual benefit becomes enormous,” he added.
He concluded by urging Muslims to embrace Zakat and Waqf as practical tools for social justice, compassion, and collective responsibility, especially at a time when many families depend on support during the fasting period.
