Second Edition (2015): Setting Agenda for a New Government
Theme: “2015 General Elections: Setting Agenda for the Newly Elected Government”
Held on Sunday, June 14, 2015, shortly after Nigeria’s historic general elections, the second edition of the National Discourse was timely and strategic. With a new administration taking office, The Companion seized the opportunity to present a civil society agenda for the incoming government.
Chairman: Mr. Fola Adeola, OFR, MNI, FCA (Pioneer Group Managing Director, Guarantee Trust Bank Plc)
Keynote Speaker: Mr. Femi Falana, SAN (Legal Practitioner and Human Rights Activist)
Guest Speaker: Professor Abubakr Momoh (Director General, The Electoral Institute, and Professor of Political Science, LASU)
The Discourse provided a platform for citizens to articulate their expectations and hold the new administration accountable. It reinforced The Companion’s commitment to democratic governance, rule of law, and citizen engagement.
Third Edition (2016): Energy for Sustainable Economic Development
Theme: “Energy for Sustainable Economic Development: What Strategic Options for Nigeria”
The third edition was held on Saturday, December 3, 2016, at the University of Lagos Main Auditorium. With Nigeria facing persistent energy challenges that hampered industrial growth and economic development, the Discourse focused on strategic options for achieving energy sufficiency.
Guest Speaker: Dr. Lanre Babalola (Minister of Power, Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2008–2010)
Chairman: Otunba G. G. Giwa (Founder and Chairman, Tripple Gee & Company Plc)
The Discourse examined Nigeria’s energy crisis and proffered solutions for sustainable economic development, contributing to national conversations on infrastructure and industrial policy.
Fourth Edition (2019): Food Security as a National Imperative
Theme: “Food Security: Unleashing Nigeria’s Natural Potentials for Self‑Sufficiency”
The fourth edition, held on Sunday, July 14, 2019, at the University of Lagos Main Auditorium, was one of the most high‑profile editions to date.
Keynote Speaker: His Excellency, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, GCON, SAN (Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, 2015–2023)
Chairman: Ogbeni (Engr.) Rauf Aregbesola (Governor, State of Osun, 2010–2018)
Guest Speaker: Professor Fola Lasisi, FAEng, FNAE (Professor of Agric Engineering and President, Nigeria Academy of Engineering; former Vice Chancellor of University of Uyo and Crescent University, Abeokuta)
The Discourse attracted widespread media attention. At a briefing ahead of the event, The Companion National Amir, Alhaji Thabit Wale Sonaike, explained that the Discourse is “an annual forum designed to generate ideas towards addressing issues of national concern”. The event also featured free medical tests for attendees, supported by the Islamic Medical Association of Nigeria (IMAN), and a mini‑exhibition of agricultural products.
Fifth Edition (2022): Islamic Finance Experiment in Nigeria
Theme: “Islamic Finance Experiment in Nigeria: Gains, Challenges and Prospects”
Held on Sunday, March 6, 2022, at the Main Auditorium of the University of Lagos, Akoka, the fifth edition explored the growth and potential of Islamic finance in Nigeria.
Chairman: Mr. Fola Adeola, OFR, MNI, FCA (Pioneer Group Managing Director, Guarantee Trust Bank Plc)
Special Guest of Honour: Khalifa Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, CON (14th Emir of Kano)
Chief Guest of Honour: Mr. Godwin Emiefele, CON (Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria), represented by the Director of Banking Supervision
Guest Speaker: Professor Abdulrazzaq Abdulmajeed Alaro, FIFP, MCIArb (UK), CIAE (Dubai) (Professor of Islamic Law, University of Ilorin, and Member, Financial Regulation Advisory Council of Experts, Central Bank of Nigeria)
The Discourse examined Nigeria’s experience with Islamic banking and finance, identifying gains, challenges, and prospects for the future.
Sixth Edition (2024): Addressing the Japa Syndrome
Theme: “Between Patriotism and Self‑Preservation: Dilemma of the Nigerian Youth – Challenges at Home, Uncertainties Abroad”
The sixth edition was held on Sunday, August 8, 2024, at the National Universities Commission (NUC) Auditorium, Abuja. It addressed one of the most pressing issues facing Nigerian youth: the Japa syndrome—mass migration abroad in search of greener pastures.
Chairman: Senator Jibrin Barau, Ph.D., CFR (Deputy Senate President, National Assembly)
Guest Speaker: Hon. Abike Dabiri‑Erewa, OON (Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission – NiDCOM)
Co‑Guest Speaker: Professor Abdul Rasheed Na’Allah (former Vice Chancellor, University of Abuja, 2019–2024)
Keynote Speaker: Hon. Ayodele Olawande (Minister of State, Youth Development, Abuja)
The Discourse attracted participants from The Companion’s six districts: Abuja, Lagos, Oyo, Kwara, Osun, and Cross River States. It generated robust discussions on patriotism, migration, and the future of Nigerian youth.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Impact
Over six editions spanning over a decade, The Companion National Discourse has demonstrated consistent commitment to national development. From corruption and governance in 2014 to youth migration in 2024, each edition has addressed issues of timely and existential importance.
The Discourse has brought together Vice Presidents, Ministers, Central Bank Governors, traditional rulers, academics, and civil society leaders—creating a unique platform for cross‑sectoral dialogue. It has influenced public policy, shaped national conversations, and inspired a new generation of Muslim professionals to take active roles in public affairs.
As The Companion prepares for future editions, the National Discourse remains a cornerstone of its mission to practice and present Islam as a force for good in Nigeria and beyond.
The Companion: Where Profession Meets Purpose, and Faith Fuels Action.
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