Talks on spirituality, mentorship, academic excellence take center stage at 115th IVC

To foster a balance between faith and success, about 6,000 young Muslims received guidance on spiritual growth, academic achievement, and the value of mentorship at the 115th Islamic Vacation Course, organised by the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Area Unit.

This came as Hon. Fuad Kayode Laguda, representing Surulere Constituency 1 in the House of Representatives advised Muslim youths to prioritise mentorship and active civic engagement as essential pillars for personal and national success.

Speaking at the formal opening of the 115th Islamic Vacation Course (IVC), themed “Global Realities: Eternal Values,” Laguda shared insights from his career, noting that lack of guidance often leads to avoidable hurdles.

“Having a mentor makes the journey easier,” Laguda stated. “They guide you with experience and protect you from mistakes they have already made. Looking back, I realised I underestimated the power of mentorship earlier on, which cost me certain opportunities. Don’t make that same mistake.”

“You can have many mentors. Have plenty of people you look up to.”

Addressing the 6,000 attendees at the Noforija campsite, the lawmaker redefined politics as an act of worship (Ibadah) and service.

He challenged youths to move from passive complaining to active contribution.

“Young people must stop asking only what leaders can do for them and start asking what they can do alongside the leaders available to them. Meaningful engagement begins with that mindset shift.”

The event also featured Modupe Kadiri, Chief Financial Officer of MTN Nigeria, who issued a stern warning against the “culture of convenience.”

He said, “Excellence is doing things properly and striving to be the best version of yourself. Many fail because they choose the easy path over the right one.

“You cannot remain static. Continuous learning is no longer optional; it is a requirement for relevance in a fast-changing world.”

Earlier, the Amir (President) of MSSN Lagos, Kamoldeen Abiona, explained that the camp’s theme serves as a reminder that Islamic values remain a steady compass in a volatile world.

Abiona also appealed to the public for support in completing the IVC campsite, specifically citing the need for a female hostel and the completion of the mosque.

Prominent leaders at the event, including YABATECH Rector Dr. Ibraheem Adedotun Abdul and Vanguard Academy CEO Dr. Zafaran Adeniyi, called on participants to remain resilient in the face of adversity.

This was also echoed by former Amir of MSSN Lagos Dr. Saheed Ashafa, who identified knowledge as a vital tool for the modern era and urged the youth to prioritize unity over division.

Lieutenant Colonel Abdul Ibrahim encouraged constructive activism, urging delegates to draw inspiration from the character of Prophet Ibrahim.

To strengthen security on the campsite, officials of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Nigerian Army, the Police, and other security agencies were on ground maintaining vigilance.