On December 24, 2025, two notable events unfolded, each underscoring the enduring influence of wisdom, leadership, and ethical guidance in both community and academic spheres. In Nigeria, Olayinka Braimoh extended heartfelt birthday greetings to Chief Abiodun Ojo, lauding his decades-long commitment to societal progress and unity. Meanwhile, in Islamabad, the Federal Urdu University of Arts, Science and Technology (FUUAST) hosted a thought-provoking seminar examining the contemporary relevance of the Holy Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) communication strategies—a topic resonant in today’s media-driven world.
Braimoh’s message, delivered with warmth and respect, described Chief Abiodun Ojo as “a man of honour, wisdom, and enduring relevance in community and public life.” According to local reports, Braimoh commended Chief Ojo for his “outstanding contributions to societal development, commitment to peace, and support for initiatives promoting unity and progress.” These words weren’t just ceremonial. For many in the community, Chief Ojo’s legacy is tangible—his life, as Braimoh noted, “reflects service, integrity, and responsibility to the people,” inspiring generations to follow in his footsteps.
Braimoh’s tribute didn’t end with praise. He prayed for “God’s continued guidance, sound health, and long life” for Chief Ojo, expressing hope for “many more years of impactful service to humanity.” The birthday message, which wished Chief Ojo “a joyful birthday celebration and greater accomplishments in the years ahead,” echoed sentiments shared widely among community members who have benefited from Chief Ojo’s leadership and wisdom.
While Nigeria’s community leaders were being celebrated for their tangible impact, halfway across the continent in Pakistan, scholars and students gathered to reflect on the timeless lessons of ethical communication. The Seerat seminar at FUUAST, titled “Contemporary Relevance of the Holy Prophet’s Communication Strategy,” drew a large audience of faculty, students, and distinguished guests. Hosted by Director Seerat Chair Hafiz Abdul Rasheed, in collaboration with the Department of Mass Communication and International Relations, the event featured Allama Muhammad Raghib Hussain Naeemi, chairman of the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), as chief guest and keynote speaker.
Assistant Professor Dr Sikandar Zarren, who conducted the proceedings, set the stage for a lively and meaningful discussion. Allama Naeemi’s keynote address struck a chord with attendees. He described the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as “the most effective and successful communicator who conveyed the message across the world.” According to the Associated Press of Pakistan, Allama Naeemi emphasized that the Prophet’s “tone was compassionate, his message clear and simple, and his discourse always aligned with the intellectual level of the audience.” He pointed out that dialogue and exemplary character were hallmarks of the Prophet’s communication strategy—qualities that remain relevant in today’s fast-paced, often polarized media landscape.
“The most successful communication model in the world was presented by the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him),” Allama Naeemi told the audience. He urged students to “follow the Seerah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) in every sphere of life,” highlighting the importance of ethical conduct and empathy in all forms of communication. His remarks resonated with the university’s mission to foster critical thinking and ethical awareness among students, particularly those studying mass communication and international relations.
The seminar’s significance was further underscored by the contributions of other university leaders. Vice Chancellor Dr Zabta Khan Shinwari praised the role of the Seerat Chair, calling it “exemplary in the academic and intellectual journey of the university.” He remarked, “Spreading the teachings of the Seerah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) is an act of worship.” In a world increasingly shaped by misinformation and propaganda, Dr Shinwari reminded attendees that “the best standard for recognizing truth and righteousness is found in the life of Prophet Muhammad Mustafa (PBUH).” He also commended Hafiz Abdul Rasheed for his dedication to promoting Seerat education and applauded the Departments of Mass Communication and International Relations for organizing such valuable co-curricular activities.
Campus In-charge Dr Saba Bashir echoed these sentiments, expressing satisfaction that the Seerat Chair was meeting the vital need for ethical guidance in an age dominated by science, technology, and media. She noted, “The importance of ethics has increased manifold,” and credited the university’s leadership for recognizing and addressing this shift. Dr Faisal Javed, Head of the Department of International Relations and Mass Communication, called it “a matter of pride and good fortune for FUUAST students to benefit from an internationally renowned scholar like Allama Raghib Naeemi.” He also announced plans to organize joint seminars with the Seerat Chair on topics such as foreign policy and Islamic teachings, underlining that “studying the Seerah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH) is essential for mass communication students to understand communication models.”
Assistant Professor Dr Sikandar Zarren, who served as stage secretary, reminded attendees that “the universal communication model originates from the life of the Holy Prophet (PBUH).” He argued that even today, students of mass communication seeking “media sense and ethical dissemination of truth” must study and understand the Prophet’s communication strategy. Such insights, he suggested, were not just academic—they were practical tools for navigating the complexities of modern media.
The seminar concluded on a celebratory note. Vice Chancellor Dr Zabta Khan Shinwari presented an honorary shield to Allama Raghib Hussain Naeemi, recognizing his contributions to Islamic scholarship and ethical leadership. In turn, Director Seerat Chair Hafiz Abdul Rasheed presented the Vice Chancellor with a book on Seerat, symbolizing the ongoing commitment to intellectual exchange and the pursuit of truth.
These two events—one honoring a respected community leader in Nigeria, the other exploring the ethical foundations of communication in Pakistan—may seem worlds apart. Yet, both underscore a common thread: the enduring value of wisdom, service, and ethical leadership. Whether through the lived example of Chief Abiodun Ojo or the timeless teachings of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the message is clear. In a world often marked by division and uncertainty, the qualities of compassion, clarity, and responsibility remain as relevant as ever. As these communities pause to celebrate and reflect, they offer a reminder that true leadership is measured not just by words, but by the lasting impact of one’s actions and the lives they touch.
