Islamic Mothering: A Prophylaxis for Social Vices in Nigeria

Abstract

The upsurge of youth and underage participation in social-vices and their disastrous Effects are causes of apprehension for the future of Nigeria. This trend is attributed to the Ineffectiveness of the home in child upbringing contrary to the Islamic provisions. This development indicates missing links between the Islamic duties of mother on child rearing and the practice of Nigeria mothers. This scenario precipitates this study which explores the Islamic mothering culture in curbing the social vices, especially among the Muslim youths in the country. The motherly roles depicted in the Qur'an serves as models for nurturing upright children. The paper expounds on some missing links between the Islamic mothering provisions and the practice among the Nigeria Muslim mothers. The study also suggests manners of fixing the gaps created in mothering Muslim children. Interview and related studies were the major research instruments. Muslims, male and female, between the ages of 12 and 80 were randomly selected as interviewees. These are: Islamic scholars, educators, school counselors, parents, youth, etc. The findings revealed that Islamic mothering is a comprehensive nurturing of a child to forestall his/her engagement in nefarious activities. Impediments to Islamic mothering identified are majorly mother's disposition and economic predicament. The study concludes that mothers should be resolute on discharging their duties as ordained by Islam, by being available and accommodating and consciously managing the meager resources made available to them. These shall make the home peaceful and serve as shield for the children against vices.