MSSN UNILAG hosts Sisters’ Seminar, emphasises modesty, PCOS awareness

By: Zaynab Oyedeji

The Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria has recently organised her annual Sisters’ Seminar, themed “Modesty: A Modern Manifesto,” which drew attention to the importance of modesty in various aspects of life.

In her keynote address, Mrs. Shakirah Eniola Olajobi highlighted the essence of modesty as a cornerstone of Islam, “Modesty is non-pride, not being arrogant,” she stated. Olajobi emphasised that modesty involves behaving respectfully in all actions and maintaining a balanced demeanour in speech and manner. 

While speaking on academic challenges and modesty, Dr. Aminat Ige, a Mathematics Lecturer at LASU and Director for Alumni Relations, who also holds the distinction of the Overall Best PhD Thesis Award from UNILAG, shared her insights on overcoming academic challenges. “In whatever you do, once you find a way to stick to God, he always finds a way through for you,” she asserted. 

She further encouraged Muslim women to make themselves indispensable and rise above stereotypes and underscored the societal value of modesty, “Modesty’s role in society is invaluable. If we all imbibe the role of modesty, some of our problems will be solved.”

As a professional in architecture, Architect Lateefah Olajide, Assistant General Manager at LSDPC, spoke about the importance of hard work, honesty, and commitment to excellence. “These qualities speak about you and will be a leverage to get opportunities,” she remarked.

Hajia Shelila Ali Rageh Hashim, CEO of Touche Royales Event & Lagos Kamu & Henna Party, emphasised the destructive nature of self-pity and encouraged women to find strength in Allah when facing challenges. 

“Once you are modest, there is already a balance. But then, you have to be moderate, not going extreme and not being too loose,” she advised.

With a strong emphasis on media consumption’s impact on Muslim women’s modesty, Dr. Mariam Gbajumo, an HR Professional and Lecturer at UNILAG, urged attendees to be cautious of media consumption. “Think about educating others. Be mindful of what you consume in the media as a Muslimah”.

PCOS Awareness 

Dr. Zaynab Salman, a Medical Doctor and Director at the Haut Institute of Technology, provided crucial information on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). She outlined key symptoms such as irregular periods, hirsutism, and persistent acne. 

Dr. Salman further dispelled common misconceptions, stating, “All sizes can have PCOS. We have slim people with PCOS, we have fat people with PCOS.” She assured that women with PCOS can conceive with appropriate treatment.

 Parental Guidance on Modesty 

As the Mother of the Day, Mrs. Fatimah Mustapha Obalola, a School Counsellor and wife of the Dean of Student Affairs at UNILAG, emphasised the role of parents in teaching modesty from home. “Modesty must be taught from the home. As parents, especially mothers, we need to teach our children the importance of modesty in everything,” she stated.

 She also highlighted that a strong foundation in modesty helps students resist negative influences in higher institutions and excel in various aspects of life.