The wife of Lagos State Governor, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, on Tuesday, implored Lagos residents and Nigerians at large to renew their faith in Nigeria and remain steadfast in prayers for divine guidance, unity, and the restoration of values that uphold the sanctity and dignity of human life as they celebrate the completion of the Ramadan fast.

Delivering her welcome address at the year 2025 Sallah celebration by the first family of Lagos State, Sanwo-Olu thanked God for the privilege and grace to begin the sacred month of Ramadan with bismillah and complete it with alhamdulillah.

She further said: “Beyond today’s gathering, I encourage us to renew our faith in Nigeria and remain steadfast in our prayers for divine guidance, unity, and the restoration of values that uphold the sanctity and dignity of human life.

“Our beloved state continues to make remarkable strides, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure its sustained progress through dedication, moral uprightness, and active participation in nation-building.”

She added that now more than ever, Nigerians must unite to build safer, stronger, and more prosperous communities.

“This is the time to strengthen bonds of brotherhood, promote harmonious coexistence, and intensify our prayers for continued peace, progress, and stability in Lagos State and Nigeria as a whole. Let us never lose sight of the importance of kindness, empathy, and a sense of collective responsibility for the well-being of our society

“It is indeed a great privilege to be among those who witnessed the holy month and are now gathered to celebrate this significant occasion in unity and gratitude.

“This special celebration, organized by the Lagos State Government through the First Family and the Ministry of Home Affairs, serves as a moment of reflection, thanksgiving, and reaffirmation of our commitment to the values and teachings of Islam. Beyond the festivities, this day reminds us to uphold the principles of sacrifice, obedience, and compassion, as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.

“This celebration teaches us the virtues of selflessness and devotion. As we partake in the celebrations, let us remember the less privileged among us, extend a helping hand to those in need, and ensure that the spirit of giving and sharing remains at the core of our daily lives. True worship goes beyond rituals—it is reflected in how we treat one another and how we contribute to the betterment of our state and nation.”

The guest lecturer, Sheikh Munirudeen Ar-Riyardy from Lagos State University of Education, implored leaders to engage the people by serving them diligently because God expects them to be servant-leaders.

He also said the followers must understand that the leaders are humans who grapple with daily personal issues.

He stated that in every situation the average citizens find him or herself, after putting all necessary human efforts in place to tackle any challenge, the next step is to retreat to God through supplication.

On his part, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, implored the residents to continue to abide by the lessons learnt during the month of Ramadan.

“We have listened to prayers and sermons on the essence of fasting which is to fear God and show compassion to people as well as encourage good neighbourliness. Now that Ramadan is gone, we must continue in the line of the lessons of Ramadan.”

There were prayers for President Bola Tinubu and his family, the governor and deputy governor and their family as well as the executive, legislative, and judiciary.