AN ASSESSMENT OF MSSN ACTIVITIES IN SELECTED SECONDARY SCHOOLS IN ABEOKUTA, OGUN STATE

This study assessed the activities of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria (MSSN) in five selected secondary schools in Abeokuta, Ogun State namely Aminat International College, Al-Hudah International Model College, IMA Model College, Peace Foundation College, and Al-Ameen International College. The research was motivated by the need to explore the role of MSSN in promoting Islamic education, moral upbringing, and leadership development among Muslim students at the secondary school level. Employing a qualitative research design, data were gathered through interviews, observation, and documentary analysis. The study examined the historical background of MSSN, its contributions to Islamic education, and the challenges it encounters in its operations within private educational institutions. Findings revealed that MSSN helped in shaping the moral, religious, and academic development of Muslim students through its organized religious programs, leadership training, peer counseling, and Qur’anic learning sessions. However, the research also identified several challenges confronting the organization, including inadequate institutional support, limited financial resources, misconceptions about Islamic student groups, and declining student participation in some schools. The study concluded that while MSSN remains a vital platform for nurturing Islamic identity and moral consciousness among students, enhanced collaboration with school authorities, parents, and Islamic stakeholders is essential for improving its reach and impact. Recommendations were made for policy support, leadership capacitybuilding, and the integration of MSSN activities into school development programs. This study contributes to scholarly understanding of Islamic youth organizations in Nigeria and offers practical suggestions for promoting inclusive religious education at the secondary school level.