Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has reaffirmed the importance of community engagement and inclusive governance following a meeting with members of the Lagos Muslim Community led by its President, Hon. Muhammad Bello Oyinlomo Danmole.
Hamzat disclosed this after spending time with the Muslim community, describing the engagement as an opportunity to connect with a group that plays an important role in the social and cultural development of Lagos State.
The Deputy Governor noted that public service extends beyond government policies, programmes and official responsibilities, stressing that meaningful leadership also requires maintaining close relationships with the people and recognising their contributions to society.
According to him, engaging with different communities provides an opportunity for leaders to better appreciate their roles, understand their importance and strengthen the relationships that contribute to the stability and progress of the state.
Hamzat expressed satisfaction with the interaction, noting that the Lagos Muslim Community remains an important part of the state’s social fabric and contributes to the diversity that defines Lagos.
He emphasised that the strength of Lagos lies in the participation and contributions of its various religious, cultural and social groups, adding that recognising these communities is essential to building a united and prosperous society.
The Deputy Governor also highlighted the importance of maintaining connections with community leaders and organisations, noting that such relationships help promote mutual understanding, cooperation and a shared sense of responsibility for the state’s development.
He said the meeting had further strengthened his appreciation of the value of community relationships and their role in keeping Lagos strong.
Hamzat’s engagement with the Muslim community reflects the importance of dialogue between public officials and the groups they serve. Such interactions provide opportunities to strengthen trust, encourage cooperation and promote a sense of belonging among residents.
Lagos State is home to people from different religious and cultural backgrounds, making peaceful coexistence and mutual respect important elements of its continued development.
The Deputy Governor reiterated the significance of recognising the contributions of different communities, noting that their collective efforts remain essential to sustaining the state’s unity, growth and progress.