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Da’wah Weekend 1447: Chairman Shares Vision and Unique Features

In this interview, the Chairman of the Da’wah Weekend 1447 Committee, Abdulrazaq Abdulqoyum, discusses the vision behind the programme, the unique features of this year’s edition, and why every Muslim student on campus should seize the opportunity to attend.

For the benefit of those who may not be familiar, what exactly is Da’wah Weekend, and why is it significant within the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN) at the University of Ibadan?

Da’wah Weekend is a three-day spiritual and educational programme, held at the end of the first semester. It is now in its second edition. The aim is to teach students the essential aspects of the Deen (Islam) that every Muslim is expected to know, and to bring this knowledge directly to their doorstep — making it accessible, relatable, and practical for everyday campus life.

What are the core objectives of this year’s Da’wah Weekend, themed “Beyond the Comfort”?

The objectives of the Da’wah Weekend are expected to bring about profound spiritual and intellectual transformation in the lives of participants.

Spiritually, by focusing on the fundamental teachings of Islam and presenting them in an accessible and relatable manner, the programme aims to rekindle their connection with Allah, encourage sincere worship, and inspire a lifestyle aligned with Islamic values. It offers a much-needed opportunity for reflection, renewal of faith, and motivation to grow in personal piety.

Intellectually, the Da’wah Weekend is designed to enrich participants with essential Islamic knowledge that every Muslim student should possess. By simplifying key aspects of the Deen and presenting them through lectures and interactive sessions, the programme strengthens their understanding, sharpens their reasoning, and equips them with the tools needed to navigate challenges faced in campus life and beyond with clarity and confidence.

How do you hope these objectives will positively impact participants spiritually and intellectually?

Our goal is to ensure the utmost welfarism of all delegates throughout the programme. To this end, we have made adequate arrangements to cater to their needs over the three core days of the event. Each delegate will be provided with seven square meals, starting from Friday evening and running through to Sunday evening, to ensure they are well-fed and energized.

In terms of accommodation, mattresses have been made available for the first 200 delegates to ensure they have a comfortable place to rest. We’ve also collaborated with the Hospital Visitation Committee to provide healthcare services that may be required during the course of the programme, so any medical concerns can be promptly attended to.

Additionally, security measures have been put in place to guarantee the safety of all attendees, and welfare officers will be on ground to respond to any emerging needs. All of these plans are in place to create a safe, supportive, and spiritually uplifting environment for every participant.

Beyond physical nourishment, how is the committee ensuring the religious well-being and comfort of participants throughout the programme?

Some of these points have been mentioned earlier, but to emphasize: beyond physical nourishment, the committee is deeply committed to the spiritual well-being and comfort of all participants.

The entire structure of the programme has been carefully designed to foster spiritual growth, reflection, and connection. Regular congregational prayers will be observed in the mosque, with proper arrangements for both brothers and sisters. Scholars and knowledgeable speakers will deliver impactful lectures, Seerah sessions, and thought-provoking reminders aimed at deepening participants’ understanding of the Deen and strengthening their relationship with Allah.

We've also created an atmosphere that encourages bonding over shared religious values. There will be opportunities for guided dhikr and interactive Q&A sessions where participants can seek clarity and spiritual guidance.

Are there any special activities, guest scholars, or notable features that make this year’s edition unique compared to last year's?

Yes, this year’s edition of the Da’wah Weekend Programme comes with some unique features that set it apart from the previous one. One of the most notable additions is the inclusion of more engaging sessions, such as the Seerah of Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal, one of the four great Imams in Islam, as well as the explanation of Lāmiyyah of Ibn Taymiyyah, a well-known poem attributed to Shaykhul Islam Ibn Taymiyyah.

We’ve also introduced practical sessions, which allow participants not only to listen but to engage actively and reflect more personally on what is being taught.

Another exciting feature this year is the extended welfare plan, which includes enhanced feeding arrangements, improved accommodation, and healthcare support — ensuring that participants remain both spiritually and physically comfortable throughout the programme.

Finally, what is your message to students who are still considering whether or not to register for this programme?

Personally, I’ve spoken with some students on campus and heard various reasons from those still undecided — some say they plan to go home, while others mention different personal commitments. While these reasons are understandable, I’d like to remind us all of the timeless words of the Prophet (S.A.W.): “Whoever treads a path in search of knowledge, Allah will make easy for him the path to Jannah.”

In another narration, the Prophet (S.A.W.): “When Allah intends good for someone, He grants him understanding of the religion.”

Attending this programme is not just another event; it’s an opportunity to seek beneficial knowledge, renew one’s faith, and build lasting spiritual connections. And whoever gives up something for the sake of Allah, Allah will replace it with something better than what was given up.

Moreover, this is just a three-day programme. It doesn’t stop you from going home or pursuing your personal plans. But remember: these three days, if well spent, may be more valuable and rewarding in the sight of Allah than many years lived without purpose.

So my message to those still considering is simple: Don’t miss out on this chance. You never know how a single reminder or moment of reflection could change your life for the better. May Allah guide our hearts and grant us the ability to choose what brings us closer to Him.