Vice President Kashim Shettima has stressed the importance of embracing core family values as the foundation for national progress, highlighting the need to restore traditional family structures to address Nigeria’s social and economic challenges.
Speaking at the Muslim Family Summit in Abuja over the weekend, Shettima, represented by Aliyu Modibbo, Special Adviser to the President on General Duties (Office of the Vice President), outlined values such as love and mercy between spouses, maintaining harmony in the home, and viewing marriage as both a spiritual commitment and an act of worship. He also emphasized the need for kindness, good character, the pursuit of knowledge, and recognizing the family’s role in shaping individuals and society.
The Muslim Family Summit, which brought together scholars, experts, and members of the public, served as a platform to discuss family life practices based on Islamic teachings.
Referencing Islamic principles, Shettima reminded attendees of the Quranic perspective on marriage as a source of peace and tranquility. The Vice President further asserted that adherence to these teachings could address many of Nigeria’s social issues. “When we build the family on the wrong foundation, we risk losing everything. But when we raise it upon sound Islamic principles, it becomes a fortress that preserves the values we hold dear.”
Calling on the Muslim community to guide the current generation of couples, Shettima expressed optimism, saying, “As I call upon the Ummah to recognize the urgent need to guide this generation of couples, I find hope in this gathering of scholars and experts who share best practices rooted in the Qur’an and Hadith.”