‎By: Adekunle Saheed
‎Aiyepe, Ogun State — October 11, 2025

The 2025 NASFAT Sisters’ Retreat formally opened today at the Aiyepe Central Mosque, Aiyepe, Ogun State, with Muslim women from across the country converging for spiritual renewal, mentorship, and sisterhood-building.
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‎In her opening address, the National Amirah, Sister Ummulkhayr Adeleke-Lawal, charged participants to remain faithful, patient, and supportive of one another in all areas of life. She emphasized that every believing woman must strive to embody the virtues of patience and perseverance while upholding truthfulness and compassion in her daily dealings.

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‎According to her, “Faithful and patient women are pillars of their homes, communities, and the Ummah. Our unity as sisters lies in our willingness to support one another with sincerity and prayer.”

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‎Also delivering a goodwill message, the National Women Affairs Secretary, Alhaja Ganiyyat Babalola, commended the NASFAT Sisters’ Forum for organizing a purposeful retreat focused on faith and personal development. She urged the sisters to continue working in harmony and to remain active contributors to NASFAT’s mission of spiritual growth and community service.

‎‎The retreat’s central theme, “Al-Mu’mināt wa al-Ṣābirāt: The Faithful & Patient Women Supporting One Another,” was presented by Alhaja Mutiat Orolu-Balogun, who emphasized the spiritual and moral benefits of patience. Her session focused on key points such as truthfulness, mutual encouragement, seeking help through prayer, and recognizing the divine rewards of patience. She explained that patience manifests in four major forms: avoiding sins and prohibitions, staying steadfast in acts of worship, remaining calm in times of trial, and showing gratitude in moments of wealth and blessing. Orolu-Balogun reminded participants that “patience is not resignation but strength, it is the foundation of faith and the key to success.”

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‎The retreat also featured a syndicate session titled “NASFAT Sisters and NASFAT Women: Building Bridges for Seamless Transition.” The interactive session examined the causes of weak synergy between the Sisters’ Forum and the Women’s Wing and explored why some young female members lose interest when transitioning to the women’s group. Participants brainstormed strategies for improving transition and fostering active participation, including mentorship initiatives, regular joint programs, and leadership opportunities that bridge generational gaps.
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‎As the day’s sessions concluded, participants expressed gratitude for the impactful discussions and the sense of unity fostered during the opening ceremony. The NASFAT Sisters’ Retreat continues through the weekend, promising more reflections, worship, and capacity-building for faithful and patient women across Nigeria.