Foundation counsels first-class graduates on nation building

The First Class Muslim Foundation has urged 50 first-class graduates to apply their knowledge toward the growth and development of society.

Speaking at the sixth M-First Series, the foundation’s Chairman, Dr Sulaimon Ogunmuyiwa, stressed that harnessing the potential of first-class graduates was crucial for the nation’s progress.

 The three-day leadership development programme for high-flying Muslim graduates, held in Lagos State

attracted 127 exceptional applicants, with 50 selected to participate.

He said, “These individuals have already demonstrated extraordinary intellectual abilities and deserve special attention.

“While academic excellence is commendable, true success lies in using that knowledge to contribute to the broader community. The M-First Series aims to equip graduates with the tools, knowledge, and networks necessary to make significant impacts in their fields.”

During the career skills session, a recent University of Lagos doctoral award winner, Dr Aminat Ige, advised participants to address their weaknesses, prioritise continuous learning, and maintain resilience.

She said, “Identify your weaknesses and start working on them. Never stop learning—knowledge will always set you apart. Learn as much as you can.

“For short-term goals, avoid distractions, and for long-term goals, live them every day. I have faced many setbacks in life, but as Muslims, you have guidance to be resilient, knowing that nothing happens without Allah’s will.”

The BUA Refinery Coordinator, Alhaji Nasir Giwa, emphasised the importance of productivity and visibility, stating, “Wherever you work, strive to be visible and available.”

The Chief Financial Officer of MTN Nigeria, Modupe Kadiri, who delivered the keynote address, encouraged participants to build strong networks and make decisive career choices.

“Build bridges wherever you go by actively networking with people in your professional field and alumni, among others,” he advised.

A senior financial expert at GE Nigeria, Mr Mutiu Adelu, underscored the importance of goal-setting and documentation, saying, “If you don’t write your goals down, they remain just dreams.”

A marriage counselor and family coach, Mrs Bushroh Okeowo-Bombata, highlighted that relationships and marriage were not barriers to career advancement.

Chief Executive Officer of Omnicom Solutions Limited, Mr Faheed Olajide, encouraged participants to adopt a forward-thinking approach to their careers.

“Your today is but a bundle of past decisions and they will be contributory to what you will become in the next five years,” he said.

Other experts who spoke at the event include the Former Acting Vice-Chancellor, Lagos State University of Science and Technology, Dr Nurudeen Olaleye; the Pro Vice-Chancellor and Dean of the College of Business, Law and Social Sciences at the University of Derby, Prof. Kamil Omoteso, who joined virtually; Group Human Resource Manager of dentsu Nigeria, Mr Mustapha Kelani; and Public Sector Expert, Dr (Mrs) Abimbola Abdur-Rahman Lekki.