Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on parents to play an active role in shaping the lives of their children by instilling core values that will help them become responsible members of society.
The governor made the call on Monday during the Eid el-Kabir celebration event hosted by the First Family of Lagos State at the State House, Marina.
Though briefly present at the event, Sanwo-Olu was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, who delivered the message on his behalf.
Sanwo-Olu underscored the critical role of parental guidance in nation-building, stressing that the younger generation must be nurtured with strong moral and religious values.
“Our children are the leaders of tomorrow. As parents, it is our sacred responsibility to guide them in the path of truth, discipline, and obedience to Almighty Allah,” he said.
He also urged Muslims to reflect on the enduring lessons of Eid el-Kabir — particularly the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, and unwavering faith in God — as these are essential in building peaceful, resilient communities.
The event, which brought together top government officials, religious leaders, women and youth groups, and members of the Muslim faithful, was both spiritual and communal.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Sa’eid Ahmad of the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital stressed the importance of collective responsibility, urging believers not to be swayed by societal pressures but to stay committed to righteousness and mutual support.
“Life’s trials are inevitable, but we must hold fast to our faith and lift one another in times of difficulty. Our strength lies in unity and the pursuit of communal well-being,” he said.
In her welcome remarks, the Wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs Oluremi Hamzat, lauded the first family for sustaining the tradition of celebrating Eid with the people.
She described the gathering as a vital platform for promoting love, unity, and spiritual renewal in line with the spirit of the season.
The Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ibrahim Layode, called on Muslims to continue living by Islamic principles.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Religious Matters, Dr Abdullahi Jebe, and the Grand Imam of Lagos, Shaykh Sulaimon Abu-Nolla, were also in attendance.
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