Islamic approach to the youth development

The paper examines the nature of development and argues that individualistic and materialistic approach of the western paradigm of development is repugnant to Islam. Islam is deeply concerned with the problems of socioeconomic and political development, but treat them as an important parts of a wider problem, that of integrated human development. The primary function of Islam is to transform the individual morally and reconstruct his social environment on correct lines and in the right direction. The paper holds that there are four types of talents that we have been granted. They are: physical, mental, moral and spiritual. Islam teaches that we should try all we can to bring these talents to perfection and that we should strive hard for it, In an Islamic framework, therefore, development means moral, spiritual and material development of the individual and society leading to maximum socioeconomic well-being with the establishment of a just order resulting in the ultimate good of mankind here and hereafter. The paper opines that religion has a crucial role to play in this regard and concludes that religious leaders must as a matter of necessity de-emphasize the message of material prosperity (which is the trend at the moment) and shout on roof-top the fundamental tenets and doctrines of religion that can foster adherent's moral and spiritual consciousness. Also parents and guardians of youth must constantly show concerns for youth moral development through demonstrable role modeling and enviable acts. This critical need for youth's moral development cannot be compromised if Nigeria is to be one of the great nations in the emerging global order.