By Kayode Olopade
The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has called on Muslim faithful to uphold and sustain the core virtues of discipline, sacrifice, compassion, and devotion cultivated during the holy month of Ramadan, stressing that their relevance extends far beyond the fasting period.
The Governor made the appeal on Saturday at the 2026 Eid-el-Fitr celebration hosted by the Lagos First Family in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs at Lagos House, Ikeja.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the lessons of Ramadan must be reflected in the daily lives of adherents through their conduct, interpersonal relationships, and service to humanity.
He noted that values such as selflessness, tolerance, and generosity remain critical to fostering a peaceful, united, and prosperous society, particularly in a cosmopolitan state like Lagos.
According to him, “Ramadan teaches discipline, love, and sacrifice. As we celebrate Eid, I encourage all of us to sustain these virtues and continue to promote peace, unity, and understanding in our communities.”
The Governor further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance, assuring residents that deliberate efforts would continue to enhance the welfare of all Lagosians, regardless of religious or ethnic affiliations
In her remarks, the First Lady of Lagos State, Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, underscored the importance of compassion and care for the less privileged, particularly during festive periods.
She urged individuals and organisations to extend acts of kindness to vulnerable members of society, noting that such gestures represent the true essence of Ramadan and Eid celebrations.
The First Lady also commended the Muslim community for their sustained prayers and support towards the peace and development of Lagos State, encouraging continued commitment to harmony and mutual respect among diverse groups.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Home Affairs, Ibraheem Layode, described the annual gathering as a strategic platform that strengthens the bond between government and the people.
Layode appreciated attendees for their participation in commemorating the successful completion of Ramadan and called for continued prayers for the progress and stability of both Lagos State and Nigeria. He also urged citizens to uphold the moral and spiritual values imbibed during Ramadan in their everyday activities.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Islamic scholar Sa'eid Ahmad spoke on the theme, “Fulfilling the Pre-Existence Covenant (Q7:172–174)”, explaining that the referenced Qur’anic verses highlight a divine covenant between humanity and Allah prior to earthly existence.
He noted that this covenant underscores human accountability and serves as a constant reminder of mankind’s ultimate purpose to worship, obey, and remain conscious of the Creator.
According to him, Ramadan offers a unique opportunity for believers to reconnect with this covenant through acts of devotion such as fasting, prayer, charity, and self-discipline.
The event featured prayers and moments of reflection, with participants expressing gratitude to Almighty Allah for the grace to witness the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.
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