In a gesture underscoring interfaith solidarity and diplomatic partnership, the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Jonny Baxter, hosted leaders of the Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT) for a Ramadan Iftar dinner at his official residence in Ikoyi, Lagos, on Tuesday. The event, held on the 18th night of Ramadan, brought together religious, governmental, and business leaders to celebrate shared values of unity, mutual respect, and community development.
A Gathering for Dialogue and Progress
The Iftar, a meal marking the end of daily fasting during Islam’s holy month, served as a platform for strengthening ties between Nigeria’s vibrant Islamic community and international stakeholders. NASFAT—a global Islamic organization with branches in over 360 locations worldwide—was represented by its President, Alhaji Ayodeji AbdulWahid AbdulRauf, and Chief Missioner, Imam Maroofdeen AbdulAzeez Onike. They were joined by senior NASFAT officials, including Vice President Alhaji Maroofdeen Ajiroba and National Women Affairs Secretary Alhaja Ganiyat Omowunmi Babalola.
Lagos State government officials, including Commissioner for Youth and Social Development Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende and Special Adviser on Tourism Hon. Idris Aregbe, also attended, alongside business leaders and senior staff of the British Deputy High Commission.
Diplomacy and Faith in Focus
In his address, Baxter praised NASFAT’s three-decade legacy of fostering interfaith harmony and uplifting communities through education and humanitarian initiatives. “NASFAT’s contributions to spiritual growth and societal progress align with our shared goals of peace and development,” he said, pledging to attend the organization’s 30th-anniversary lecture on May 1, 2025, and to engage fellow diplomats in the event.
Alhaji AbdulRauf, in response, thanked the UK envoy for the gesture, stating, “This Iftar reinforces the power of collaboration. It is through such partnerships that we advance national unity and global understanding.” He highlighted NASFAT’s expanding influence, with branches across Africa, Europe, and North America, and reiterated its commitment to initiatives promoting youth empowerment, women’s welfare, and interreligious dialogue.
Celebrating 30 Years of Impact
Founded in 1995, NASFAT has grown into a cornerstone of Nigeria’s Islamic community, known for its emphasis on moderation, education, and philanthropy. As part of its anniversary celebrations, the group plans to host forums on governance, health, and economic empowerment, further cementing its role as a bridge between faith and societal development.
Tuesday’s Iftar also spotlighted Lagos’s role as a hub for diplomatic engagement, with Baxter emphasizing the UK’s interest in supporting “inclusive partnerships” that drive prosperity. The guest list—spanning faith leaders, policymakers, and business figures—reflected a collective vision for a society where diverse sectors collaborate for the greater good.
Looking Ahead
The event concluded with prayers for peace in Nigeria and globally, as attendees networked over traditional Ramadan delicacies. With NASFAT’s anniversary lecture poised to draw further international attention, the Iftar signaled a deepening alignment between religious institutions and diplomatic actors in addressing shared challenges.
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