NASFAT Tasks Media, Movie Practitioners to Correct Biases Against Islam

The Chief Missioner of the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT), Imam Abdul-Azeez Morufu Onike, has called on media professionals and movie practitioners to play a more responsible role in correcting persistent biases and misrepresentations of Islam in public discourse. He made the call during the 2026 Ramadan NASFAT Iftar with the Media held in Lagos. The event […]

The Chief Missioner of the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society (NASFAT), Imam Abdul-Azeez Morufu Onike, has called on media professionals and movie practitioners to play a more responsible role in correcting persistent biases and misrepresentations of Islam in public discourse.

He made the call during the 2026 Ramadan NASFAT Iftar with the Media held in Lagos.

The event hosted media executives as well as some Nollywood Actors, producers and directors.

In attendance were producer, Alhaji Kazeem Adeoti; Director/Filmmaker Adebayo Tijani; Afeez Owo; Lateef Adedimeji, Muyideen Oladapo aka Lala; and Fatiha Balogun.

Also in attendance were Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Abubakar Ogunlende and Special Adviser to the Lagos Governor on Media, Alhaji Gboyega Akosile.

Addressing the journalists, broadcasters and filmmakers, Imam Onike emphasised that media remains one of the most powerful instruments for shaping public perception, stressing that it can either deepen misunderstanding or foster clarity and harmony.

“Media is not just about information; it is about influence,” he said, adding, “When narratives are framed without fairness or knowledge, they create stereotypes that harm social cohesion. Islam must not be reduced to headlines driven by extremism or conflict.”

The NASFAT leader urged practitioners in Nigeria’s film industry and mainstream media to prioritise truth, verification and balanced storytelling, particularly when reporting on religious matters.

According to him, selective reporting and sensational portrayals have contributed to misconceptions about Islam and Muslims, especially among younger generations who consume most of their information through digital platforms.

He noted that ethical media practice aligns with the Qur’anic injunction that calls for verification of information before dissemination, warning that speed should never override responsibility.

“Verification must come before virality. Accuracy must come before applause,” he added.

President of NASFAT, Alhaji Ayodeji Abdulrauf also aligned with the Chief Missioner, seeking the support of the media to positively portray Islam and project the work of NASFAT.

He said NASFAT is working assiduously to alleviate the suffering of the downtrodden, adding that NASFAT would continue to support the Internally Displaced People (IDPs) irrespective of their religion.

Speaking on the theme of NASFAT’s 2026 Ramadan, “He who saves life, saves humanity,” a Missioner of NASFAT, Imam AbdulGaniyu Raji said journalists, filmmakers and other media practitioners play crucial role in saving lives through positive reportage.

The Commissioner for Youth and Social Development said media is a powerful tool for changing the narrative about youth. He said the youth population must be well guided to positively use the media and not see the various media platforms especially the social media as a tool for seeking attention, clicks and validation.