Gov. Sanwo-Olu Urges Muslims to Uphold Ramadan Virtues

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has urged Muslims to sustain the virtues of discipline, humility, and generosity imbibed during Ramadan for continued peace, unity, and prosperity in the state.

Mr Sanwo-Olu said this on Saturday at the Eid-el-Fitr celebration organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Home Affairs, at Lagos House, Ikeja.

The programme had the theme “Living Every Second of Life for the Hereafter.”

The governor was represented at the event by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin.

He said that Eid-el-Fitr was not only a celebration marking the successful completion of fasting, but also a reminder of the enduring values taught during Ramadan.

“Today, we gather in gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting us the strength and grace to complete the holy month of Ramadan, a period of sacrifice, reflection, charity, and renewed devotion. Eid-el-Fitr is also a powerful reminder that Ramadan teaches us compassion for one another, discipline, humility, and generosity to those in need.

“These virtues are essential not only to our faith, but also to the continued progress and harmony of our state.

“As a government, we remain committed to building a society where peace, unity, and shared prosperity prevail,” he said.

Mr Sanwo-Olu urged Muslims to carry the spirit of Ramadan beyond the festive period and continue to support one another in the interest of justice, peace, and development.

“I encourage all my Muslim brothers and sisters and residents today to carry the spirit of Ramadan beyond today.

“We must continue to support one another, uphold justice, and work together for the development of our dear state. Let this blessed occasion strengthen the bonds of brotherhood among us and inspire renewed hope for a more peaceful and prosperous future.

“On behalf of the good people of Lagos State, I warmly wish all of us Eid Mubarak.

“May Allah accept our prayers, our fasting, and our acts of charity; and may Allah continue to bless our dear state and nation,” he said.

In her welcome address, the wife of the governor, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, congratulated the Muslim faithful on the successful completion of Ramadan.

She urged them to remain conscious of their purpose on earth by living a life of service, kindness, and devotion to God.

She said the celebration was an opportunity not only for merriment, but also for sober reflection on the lessons of Ramadan and the need to remain steadfast in doing good.

“We give all praise and gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting us the grace to witness this joyous celebration of Eid-el-Fitr, marking the successful completion of the holy month of Ramadan.

“While today is a day of celebration, it is also a moment for deep reflection. Eid-el-Fitr reminds us of the virtues of sacrifice, discipline, compassion, and generosity; values we have all embraced throughout the Ramadan period,” she said.

Mrs Sanwo-Olu commended the Ministry of Home Affairs, led by the Commissioner, Ibrahim Layode, for organising what she described as a remarkable gathering that brought together people of faith, leaders, and members of the community in unity and shared purpose.

She said the theme of the event underscored the need for residents to live every moment intentionally, bearing in mind that life is transient and that every act of kindness and service to humanity carries eternal significance.

“As captured in the theme for this event, ‘Living Every Second of Life for the Hereafter,’ we are reminded that the clock is ticking. Every day that we live, let us always remember to do good to fellow human beings. Let us not forget our reason for being on this earth.

“This theme calls us to live consciously and purposefully.

“It reminds us that our actions, kindness, service to humanity, and commitment to peace shape not only our society, but also our eternal reward,” she said.

The governor’s wife also called on Lagos residents to continue to show love to one another, support the less privileged, and promote peaceful coexistence across religious and cultural divides.

“In a time when the world continues to face various challenges, the lessons of Ramadan provide us with a guiding light.

“Our strength is rooted in our rich diversity, mutual respect, and shared commitment to collective progress.

“It is not only the government; all of us are stakeholders in Lagos State.

“We must continue to nurture harmony within our communities and uphold the values that unite us as one people,” she said.

She prayed to Allah to accept the prayers, sacrifices, and acts of charity, and grant them abundant blessings, peace, and fulfilment.

Ridwannuallah Jamiu, Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, delivered an Eid lecture entitled “Fulfilling the Pre-Existence Covenant: The Quranic Roadmap.” He emphasised the need for Muslims to remain steadfast in obedience to Allah, uphold righteousness, and align their daily conduct with divine injunctions as a pathway to success in this world and the hereafter.

The special adviser to the governor on religion, Abdullah Jebe, offered prayers for Lagos State, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), as well as market men and women across the state for Allah’s protection and blessings.

Mr Layode thanked participants for honouring the invitation and urged them to sustain the spiritual lessons of Ramadan.

“As we depart, let us go with renewed faith, deeper love for one another, and a stronger commitment to peace and service to humanity.

“May the blessings of Eid remain with us, and may Almighty Allah continue to guide and prosper Lagos State. Eid Mubarak to you all,” Mr Layode said.

(NAN)