The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has called on Nigerians to promote unity, strengthen family values, and foster peaceful coexistence as critical pillars for national development.
Dr. Hamzat made the call during the annual Ramadan lectures of Nawair-Ud-Deen (Lagos) and Anwar-Ul-Islam Movement of Nigeria, held in Mushin Idi-Oro and Agege, respectively.
He urged citizens to be more committed to godly endeavours and maintain positive relationships with their neighbours, noting that communal harmony remains the foundation for societal growth and national progress.
According to him, Nigerians, regardless of religious affiliation, must demonstrate genuine patriotism by loving the country and speaking positively about it. He stressed that a positive national mindset and collective responsibility are essential for fostering stability, strengthening public confidence, and advancing sustainable development.
Dr. Hamzat emphasized the need to rebuild strong, value-driven homes, describing the family as the first institution of learning and character formation. He warned that the breakdown of the family unit poses serious social and economic consequences for the nation.
“The family remains the first institution of learning and character formation. When the family system fails, the society and the economy inevitably bear the consequences,” he said.
The Deputy Governor further urged Muslim faithful to teach their children moral values, lawful conduct, and peaceful coexistence with neighbours as part of efforts to build a stable and progressive society.
In his lecture titled “Unified Ummah, Stronger Nation: The Role of Islam in National Growth,” the Zonal Chief Imam and Chairman of the Zonal Mission Board of Nawair-Ud-Deen (Lagos), Alhaji As-Sheikh Abdul Majeed Sheu Ayinla, called on the Islamic community to promote peace and harmonious coexistence with people of other faiths in the interest of national unity and development.
He noted that every Muslim is expected to love and respect both their country of birth and residence, adding that no nation can rise above the moral standard of its citizens.
Similarly, at the lecture organized by the Anwar-Ul-Islam Movement of Nigeria titled “Faith, Unity and Nation-Building: The Role of Muslims in a Diverse and Changing Nigeria,” the National Chief Imam and Missioner of the group, Imam Muslihu Adebola Afisis, emphasized justice, good governance, and civic responsibility as foundations for national growth.
He underscored the importance of youth development, education, economic productivity, and vigilance against corruption and mediocrity. The cleric called on both citizens and leaders to share responsibility in promoting peace, fairness, and social cohesion.
Imam Afisis added that Muslims are expected to uphold honesty, justice, and equity, while fostering harmony within Nigeria’s diverse society and supporting initiatives that advance education, economic empowerment, and national unity.