Concern government agencies and non governmental organizations have been advised to collaborate with religious leaders in educating their followers on the importance of child spacing and family planning.
A reknown sokoto based Islamic Scholar , Sheikh Bello Mai Nasiha gave the advice while speaking to Radio Nigeria in the state .
The revered Islamic leader noted that such partnerships would bridge the gap between medical science and religious understanding.
The Islamic scholar underscored the importance of child spacing stressing that is not only beneficial to the health of mothers and children but also consistent with the principles of Islam, which values moderation, responsibility, and healthy living.
He noted that many misconceptions surrounding family planning stem from ignorance and misinterpretation of religious texts.
According to him, clerics carries the responsibility of correcting such notions and guiding their followers with sound knowledge and wisdom.
“Sheikh Bello Mai Nasiha stressed that Islam encourages the protection of the mother and child. When pregnancies are properly spaced, it reduces health risks, prevents maternal mortality, and ensures the wellbeing of the family.
The scholar also highlighted that family planning provides parents with the ability to cater adequately for their children’s education, nutrition, and upbringing, which are integral responsibilities in Islam.
He emphasized that bringing children into the world without the means to care for them contradicts the values of justice and compassion in the religion.
Sheikh Mai Nasiha cautioned against viewing family planning solely as a Western idea, insisting that its essence is rooted in wisdom and responsibility that Islam has always encouraged.
He urged couples to consult medical experts alongside religious guidance when making decisions on birth spacing.
The cleric called on fellow scholars and Imams across mosques in the country to include discussions on child spacing in their sermons and teaching sessions, as this would reach the grassroots and create awareness among people in both rural and urban communities.
“Sheikh Mai Nasiha believes that with proper guidance from religious clerics, more families will appreciate the benefits of child spacing and family planning, not only in health but also in fulfilling their religious obligations .
“He added that by leveraging their influence and authority, religious leaders can effectively champion a new narrative that harmonizes health benefits with faith, ensuring healthier families, stronger communities, and a more prosperous society.
NASIR MALALI
