THE RELEVANCE OF ILMI CIRCLES IN SUSTAINING ISLAMIC EDUCATION IN LAFIA METROPOLIS

The aim of this paper is to explore the Ilmi Circles in Lafia Metropolis and to encourage its development and patronage by the the stakeholders concerned as centres of Arabic and Islamic knowledge. The Ilmi Circles are well known centres for acquiring and imparting knowledge to the teaming Muslim faithful, young and old of all genders Surdtiil ‘Alaq (Q. 96: 1-5) is a clear proof that education is paramount to the development of individuals and society at large. Lafia Metropolis,1 is part of the Lafia local government area, which currently, selves as-the seat of the government and the state capital as well, it is in the North Central Nigeria^geopolitical zone. However, these centres that spread Islamic education, awareness and civilization are facing challenges such as poor attendance by our youths and elders, lack of financial support and absence of infrastructural development among others; The method applied in writing this article, is through the use of relevant books in the library and interview with the stakeholders, it is found that the teachers are sacrificing their time and energy to fulfill part of their divinely enshrined role and responsibility of teaching the coxr\n\un\ty(Ummah)s but they do not receive any fixed remuneration from either the government or wealthy individuals in the society to boost their morale. It is recommended that stakeholders concerned and leaders should endeavour to assist these 7ImJCircles to function'well