UMA Disburses N14.2m Scholarship, Eyes Takaful Insurance for Members

Alumni body empowers UNILAG students, strengthens welfare initiatives

By Abdullahi Yusuf

The University of Lagos Muslim Alumni (UMA) has awarded N14.2 million in scholarships to 23 indigent students of the institution for the 2025/2026 academic session, in a renewed effort to support education and welfare within the university community.

Presentation of N1m to the representative of MSSN UNILAG chapter

PEACE Magazine gathered that the scholarships were presented during UMA’s 36th Annual General Meeting and Congress, held Wednesday at the Islamic Centre, UNILAG Mosque, Akoka-Yaba, Lagos. The gathering drew Muslim alumni from across Nigeria and abroad, including accomplished professionals in education, banking, engineering, and public service.

Speaking at the event, UMA National President, Dr. Mumini Alao, said the scholarship awards were part of the association’s continuous effort to promote excellence and ease the financial burden of students.

“The National Executive Council approved this support based on recommendations from our Scholarship Committee, and today, 23 beneficiaries are receiving their cheques,” he stated.

Dr. Alao (with mic) together with Alhaji Tajudeen Adebanjo (UMA National General- Secretary) and Alhaji Abdul Kabir Kuye (Financial Secretary)

Dr. Alao also announced a N1 million grant to the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN), UNILAG Branch, aimed at assisting indigent students with tuition fees. The fund, he noted, would be managed by MSSN under the supervision of their student adviser, Professor Shakirudeen Odunuga.

Beyond the scholarships, UMA unveiled plans to launch a Takaful Group Insurance Scheme for members, a move described by participants as a milestone in Islamic mutual welfare initiatives.

“Our Welfare Secretary, Professor Taofeeqat Adesalu, has received proposals from three Takaful insurance organisations,” Dr. Alao explained. “An ad-hoc committee is reviewing them, and we hope to roll out the scheme soon. Members are encouraged to subscribe when it becomes operational.”

In his address, the UMA President also announced the reconstitution of standing and ad-hoc committees for improved service delivery. Notable appointments include Professor Luqman Adams as Chairman of the Scholarship Committee, Engr. Abdulfatai Bakare for the Pre-Ramadan Lecture Committee, and Dr. Ganiyat Tijani-Adenle as head of the Publicity Committee.

A major highlight of the congress was a keynote session on entrepreneurship and retirement planning, which featured three distinguished speakers.

Bar. Muiz Banire (second left) with other dignitaries

Delivering the first paper, Dr. Ahmed Tunde Popoola, Managing Director/CEO of CRC Credit Bureau Limited, urged young graduates to integrate financial literacy into their long-term planning.

“Retirement preparation must go beyond saving money. It should include health, social relationships, and legacy building,” Dr. Popoola advised.

Also speaking, Hajia Shareefah Abiola Andu, CEO of Arabel Islamic Store and Chairperson of the Lekki Phase 1 Residents Association, underscored the role of networking in business success.

“Networking opens doors that qualifications alone cannot,” she said. “Young entrepreneurs must understand policy environments and build strong business structures.”

A health talk by Dr. Sakeenah Odunaye-Badmus, consultant family physician at LUTH, rounded off the event, with a call on Nigerians to adopt healthy lifestyles early.

“Many chronic diseases are rooted in lifestyle choices made in youth. We must all take our wellbeing seriously,” she warned.

The 36th UMA Congress also provided a platform for alumni to reconnect, network, and exchange business ideas, reaffirming the association’s mission to foster unity and growth among Muslim graduates of the University of Lagos.

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