Lagos, Nigeria, has become the epicenter of a significant global Islamic discourse as it hosts a massive international conference attracting over 20,000 scholars, academics, and faithful from across the world. The event, which commenced on January 1, 2026, is drawing participants from nations including Saudi Arabia, the United States, Malaysia, and several African and European countries.
A Global Gathering for Theological Discourse
The scholars are participating in the 17th International Conference of the Daaru Na'im Academy for Shariah Sciences, scheduled to run until January 4, 2026. The opening ceremony was held at the Daaru Na'im Eid Praying Ground in Igando, Alimosho, Lagos, with a massive physical turnout complemented by thousands of virtual attendees from various global locations.
The conference director-general and Chief Imam of Daaru Na'im, As-Shaykh Dr Imran AbdulMajeed Eleha, stated that the assembly was convened to tackle contemporary challenges facing Muslim societies. He emphasized issues related to belief, values, and social cohesion as central themes.
Addressing Contemporary Challenges Through Sound Creed
The four-day conference operates under the theme: "The Jurisprudence of the Sound Creed (Fiqh al-‘Aqīdah) and Contemporary Challenges." Dr. Eleha explained that the core objective is to reaffirm the importance of correct Islamic belief in molding responsible individuals and fostering stable societies.
He directly linked many of the current social, moral, and ideological crises within Muslim communities to deviations from authentic Islamic creed. He noted that these problems are exacerbated by the activities of esoteric and deviant groups falsely operating under an Islamic banner.
"These challenges require a united scholarly response grounded in authentic Islamic teachings and guided by knowledge, wisdom and moderation," Dr. Eleha asserted during his opening address.
An International and Multicultural Assembly
The event features a diverse array of participants, including representatives from the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, leading Islamic institutions in North America and Asia, and officials from various Islamic councils and universities across Africa. Other nations represented include Benin Republic, Ivory Coast, Algeria, The Gambia, and Togo.
Reflecting its truly international character, the proceedings are being conducted in Arabic, English, French, Hausa, and Yoruba. The gathering has attracted not only scholars but also traditional rulers, government officials, academics, and Muslim faithful from Africa, Asia, North America, and Europe.
This large-scale conference underscores Nigeria's, and particularly Lagos's, growing role as a vital hub for significant international Islamic dialogue and scholarly exchange, focusing on foundational beliefs as a remedy for modern societal issues.
