Muslim Student Association (Nigeria)
Definition
The Muslim Student Association (Nigeria) is an organization of Muslim Nigerian college students, established in the 1960s. It experienced significant growth during the 1970s, attributed to the oil boom and the resulting expansion in higher education opportunities. The association predominantly consists of members aiming to reform their Sufi orientation, largely influenced by Abubakar Gumi, the grand kadi of Northern Nigeria during the First Republic (1960–66).
Etymology and Translations
- Arabic: جمعية الطلاب المسلمين (نيجيريا)
- Turkish: Nijerya Müslüman Öğrenci Derneği
Historical Context
The rise of the Muslim Student Association in Nigeria in the 1960s corresponds with a period of significant educational reforms and political changes within the country. The discovery of oil ushered in an era of rapid economic growth, increasing opportunities for higher education.
Influence
Abubakar Gumi, an influential Islamic scholar and former grand kadi of Northern Nigeria, played a pivotal role in motivating a departure from traditional Sufi practices towards a reformed Islamic understanding. Gumi’s teachings strongly focused on Salafi interpretations of Islam and sought to eradicate what he perceived as superstitions and undesired innovations within Nigerian Islam.
Cultural Significance
For Nigerian Muslim students, the Association became a pivotal forum for religious education, social networking, and advocacy for Islamic values within the academic and broader Nigerian context. It also provided a platform for students to discuss contemporary issues facing Muslims, both locally and globally.
Suggestion for Further Studies
- Books
- “The History of Islam in Africa” by Nehemia Levtzion and Randall Pouwels – This comprehensive book covers the development of Islam in Africa, including Nigeria.
- “The Cross and the Crescent: The Rise of American Evangelicalism and the Future of Muslims” by J.B. Phillips – Covers influences of global Islamic movements, including Nigeria.
- “Islam and the Political Culture in Nigeria” by Fathi Muhammad Addayfinah - This explores political and religious dynamics in Nigeria.
Takeaways
- Growth Paralleled with Economic Boom: The expansion was heavily influenced by socio-economic factors like the oil boom.
- Influence of Abubakar Gumi: Key figure in shifting perspectives among Nigerian Muslim students.
- Focus on Reform: The association sought to innovate and reform traditional Islamic practices.
Conclusion
The Muslim Student Association (Nigeria) reflects a critical juncture in the history and cultural evolution of Islam in Nigeria. It underscores the confluence of economic factors, educational opportunities, and religious reform in shaping the religious landscape for future generations.
By examining the Association, one gains insight into the broader narratives of Islamic reform, educational aspirations, and cultural interplay within Nigerian society during the latter half of the 20th century.
