The Muslim Media Practitioners of Nigeria (MMPN), Edo State chapter, yesterday visited the Chief Imam of Benin Central Mosque, Alhaji Abdulfatah Enabulele to explore ways at strengthening collaboration to ensure accurate and balanced reporting of Islamic matters.
The visit focused on building a strong working relationship between the MMPN and the Chief Imam’s office, particularly in addressing misinformation surrounding Islam and promoting positive narratives about the Benin Muslim community on the one hand and Islam generally.
Chief Imam Enabulele while welcoming the team, acknowledged the crucial role of the body of Muslim media practitioners.
According to him, “I agree with you that we need to work together. Your coming at this period is timely. This collaboration is very strategic because the media is very key in whatever we do,”
Enabulele also highlighted the importance of involving other key Islamic stakeholders in State, including the League of Imams, the Edo State Council for Islamic Affairs, and Muslim traditional leaders, in the collaborative efforts.
Discussions also centered on the ongoing Ramadan season which Imam Enabulele emphasized is significant in self examination and strengthening for community support.
He encouraged Muslims to extend kindness and share whatever Allah has provided for them with the less privileged, highlighting the importance of prayer and good deeds during the holy month.
Earlier, the Acting President of MMPN, Edo State chapter, Mallam Abdullah Abdulkadir disclosed that the association has long been in existence having been registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in 1997.
According to him, “Looking at the strategic nature of your office, we decided to visit you. In line with the aims and objectives as contained in the constitution of the association, our visit aims to explore areas of collaboration with your office as the Chief Imam for impactul progress and development of Islam in the State particularly in the area accurate and balanced reporting of Islamic matters.
“We aim to address the age long challenge of misinformation and misrepresentation of Muslims and Islam over the years and also promote the contributions of Muslim leaders and organizations towards building the society.”
The MMPN and the Chief Imam’s office expressed their commitment to working together to foster better understanding of Islam and promote Muslims positive community engagements during Ramadan and beyond.
