By Goodluck Ikiebe
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, has called on journalists to draw inspiration from the exemplary life and work of late Rafat Salami, a respected journalist, who contributed significantly to the growth of the profession in Nigeria.
Idris made the appeal at the 3rd-day prayer session in her honour held at the Al-Habibiyyah Mosque in the Guzape District of Abuja, nation’s capital.
The Information Minister praised Hajia Rafat Salami’s dedication and professionalism.
“Mrs. Salami was very hardworking, courageous, and passionate about everything she pursued. During my tenure as President of the International Press Institute (IPI) in 2015, she served as Treasurer, and her outstanding contributions greatly advanced the Institute’s goals,” he stated.
Muhammad Idris conveyed condolences on behalf of President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Ministry of Information and National Orientation, describing her passing as a profound loss to the field of journalism..
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Imam of Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society, Fuad Adeyemi, who officiated the prayer session, highlighted Hajia Rafat Salami’s dedication to her faith.
Imam Fuad Adeyemi described her as a devout Muslim and a committed member of the Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Society.
“We lost a sister who played an integral role in the survival and growth of Al-Habibiyyah.
Her commitment to the propagation of Islam and her community efforts will remain a lasting legacy,” he said while praying for Allah’s mercy upon her soul.
Imam Adeyemi reflected on her remarkable life, emphasising her commitment to community service.
“We mourn her so much. Al-Habibiyyah mourns her so much. We are so sad that Sister Rafat has left us,” the Imam said.
He encouraged the attendees to find comfort in her legacy of faith and service, adding, “We are sad that Almighty Allah has invited her..
Quoting verse 169 of Surat Al-Imran from the Holy Qur’an, Imam Adeyemi reflected on the eternal life of those who serve Allah:
“Think not of those who are killed in the Way of Allah as dead. Nay, they are alive, with their Lord, and they have provision.”
Hajia Rafat passed away on Friday, December 20, 2024, after a brief illness.
Until her passing, Hajia Rafat Salami served as the Assistant Director of Digital Media at Voice of Nigeria (VON) and was the Treasurer of the International Press Institute (IPI). She was also actively involved in the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) and the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council as Former Secretary.
