A lecturer at the University of Ilorin, Dr. Abdulhameed Badmus Yusuf, has called for the reintroduction of religious studies as a compulsory subject in Nigerian schools to help address the growing moral decadence among youths.

Speaking in Ilorin during a Town Hall Meeting organised by the National Orientation Agency (NOA) in collaboration with the Ilorin Emirate Descendants Progressive Union (IEDPU), Dr. Yusuf said reinstating Islamic and Christian Religious Studies as core subjects would help rebuild the moral foundation of society.

“In the past, both Islamic and Christian Religious Studies were compulsory for all students regardless of their field—arts, science, or commercial,” he said. “But since the subjects became optional, we’ve seen a sharp rise in crime and social vices. These two religions teach the same moral values our society desperately needs.”

The don noted that moral teachings found in both the Quran and the Bible promote honesty, respect, and discipline—values he said are fast disappearing among young people.

Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, represented by the Commissioner for Education and Human Capital Development, Dr. Lawal Olohungbebe, urged residents to uphold the state’s tradition of peace, knowledge, and unity.

“Our forefathers fought for development and education, not for power. They laid a foundation that made Kwara a peaceful and progressive state,” Olohungbebe said. “We must ensure our youths emulate the examples of distinguished sons and daughters of the state excelling across the globe.”

The Director-General of NOA, Mallam Issa Onilu, represented by Mrs. Theresa Maduekwe, said the town hall meeting was part of a broader effort to restore societal values and curb social vices. She encouraged young people to use technology and social media positively to build their character and skills.

IEDPU President, Alhaji Abdulmumini Abdulmalik, said the initiative aims to revive the moral values for which the Ilorin Emirate is known.

The town hall meeting was preceded by a sensitisation walk against moral decadence and will be followed by an empowerment programme for 40 youths who will be trained in soap-making and barbing, with start-up tools provided.

Security agencies including the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Customs Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and the Federal Road Safety Corps were also represented at the event.