The Federation of Muslim Women’s Associations in Nigeria (FOMWAN) Lagos State Chapter marked a major milestone as it celebrated its 40th anniversary with a grand Thanksgiving Prayer and Appreciation programme held on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque Multipurpose Hall, CBD, Alausa, Ikeja.
The well-attended event brought together Islamic scholars, traditional rulers, community leaders, government officials, and members of the Muslim community to commemorate four decades of impactful service, advocacy, and empowerment of Muslim women across Lagos State.
With the theme, “Empowering Muslim Women in Embracing Resilience and Sustainable Community Development in the Face of Climate Change,” the anniversary celebration underscored the organization’s commitment not only to spiritual growth but also to addressing contemporary global challenges affecting communities.
The Chairperson of the Day, Alhaja Sekinat Yusuf, Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of the Governing Council of Al-Hikmah University, commended FOMWAN Lagos for its unwavering dedication to women’s development, education, and humanitarian services. She emphasized the vital role Muslim women play in fostering sustainable communities and called for strengthened collaboration in tackling climate-related challenges through faith-based initiatives and grassroots engagement.
Adding royal splendour to the occasion was the Chairman and Royal Father of the Day, His Royal Majesty, Oba Abdulwasiu Omogbolahan Lawal, the Oniru of Iru Kingdom, Lagos State. The monarch lauded FOMWAN’s contributions to moral development, social welfare, and community building over the past 40 years. He encouraged the organization to continue nurturing responsible families and championing initiatives that promote environmental responsibility and social resilience.
The Guest Lecturer, Prof. Khadijah Olaniyan of Lagos State University, delivered an insightful lecture aligned with the anniversary theme. She highlighted the intersection between faith, resilience, and sustainable development, stressing that Muslim women must be equipped with knowledge, skills, and leadership opportunities to respond effectively to climate change and societal transformations.
In her remarks, the Chief Host and Amirah of FOMWAN Lagos, Alhaja Serifat Oluwatoyin Ajagbe, expressed profound gratitude to Allah for sustaining the organization through four decades of growth and impact. She reaffirmed FOMWAN’s commitment to its motto, “Allah’s Guidance is the Only True Guidance,” noting that divine guidance has remained the cornerstone of the association’s vision and achievements.
Members of the planning committee, led by Chairperson Alhaja Fatima Folashade Gawat and Secretary Alhaja Rahmatallahi Olaniyan, were commended for organizing a befitting anniversary programme that blended thanksgiving, reflection, and forward-looking dialogue.
The event featured special prayers, goodwill messages, and tributes celebrating FOMWAN Lagos’ legacy in education, health advocacy, social welfare, and women’s empowerment. As the organization steps into its fifth decade, stakeholders expressed optimism that FOMWAN Lagos will continue to strengthen Muslim women’s voices and contribute meaningfully to sustainable community development in Lagos State and beyond.
