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Scholars Urge Muslim Brothers to Rethink Strength, Marriage at Brothers' Forum

Scholars have urged Muslim brothers to rethink their understanding of strength and approach marriage with greater awareness and preparation.

The call was made at Brothers’ Forum'48, organised by the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, University of Ibadan (MSSN UI), at the University of Ibadan Central Mosque on Sunday, 20th September, 2026.

The event featured lectures by Dr. Abdulkabeer Ali-Alabi and Dr. Ibrahim Rasheed, alongside a panel session on issues affecting Muslim men.

In his lecture titled “From Confusion to Clarity: Choosing the Right Partner,” Dr. Ali-Alabi discussed considerations for choosing a spouse and maintaining the marital bond.

He highlighted good manners, patience, and understanding of the Qur’an and Sunnah as qualities to consider when choosing a spouse, while stressing the importance of knowing the nature of the business an intended spouse is involved in.

Dr. Ali-Alabi emphasised that the Shariah of Islam does not prohibit women from working or engaging in business activities.

He also spoke on responsibilities in marriage, including the proper handling of a wife’s wealth when entrusted to the husband, while noting the importance of Du'a and directing one’s affairs towards Allah.

Dr. Ali-Alabi added that marriage, when entered into for the sake of Allah, can be a source of rizq.

Speaking on strength and emotional awareness, Dr. Ibrahim Rasheed said, “A man must be strong. That ‘strong’ is what is killing us,” challenging the perception of strength that makes men feel they must handle everything by themselves.

He urged brothers to speak up and seek emotional support when necessary, noting that real strength also includes emotional awareness.

“A man should talk. If you are looking for a job, look for someone to help you,” he said, encouraging men not to be afraid to ask for support when they need it.

Dr. Rasheed also argued that masculinity is not toxic, but that the way it is perceived can make it so. He urged brothers not to downgrade sisters and encouraged them to discuss issues they are battling with their partners.

The panel session featured three men, both married and unmarried, who shared their perspectives on marriage and other issues affecting Muslim men.

Speaking on marriage, one of the panelists stressed that a man should have a goal and a stable source of income before embracing marriage.