The Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Pantami, has underscored the significance of mosque as a centre for the integration and advance of Islam and Muslim community in the country.
Prof. Isa Pantami, Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, has emphasized the importance of the mosque as a centre for the integration and advance of Islam and Muslim community in the country.
He stated this at the Public Presentation of Progress Report and Milestones on Al-Noor Mosque Expansion Project, which took place on Saturday in Abuja at the International Centre for Islamic Culture and Education (ICICE).
Pantami noted that historically, mosque had played a significant role in the development of Islamic Culture and Education, adding that the first University to be established in the world started from a mosque.
“The second University to be established globally also originated from a mosque. Similarly, the first University and first Degree Awarding institution in the world was the University of al-Qarawiyyin in Morocco.
“It was followed by the University of Al Azhar in Cairo, Egypt, both of them originated from a mosque.
“This is to show us that mosque is not only where we converge and pray five daily prayers, but a mosque is supposed to be a centre of learning, centre for child upbringing, uniting Muslims and a centre for guidance and counseling.
“Also, a mosque is a place where Muslims are taught good moral behavior and it is a place for economic development and so on.”
Pantami stated that the Abuja-based International Centre for Islamic Culture and Education is one of the country’s most effective Islamic centers.
“The series of activities at the centre includes praying five times daily, conducting marriage activities, taking care of orphans, widows and vulnerable groups,” he added.
