Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamat has urged Nigerians to renew their commitment to upholding family values for the betterment of the Nation.
Dr. Hamzat gave the admonishment at the 85th Anniversary Lecture and Luncheon of Crescent Bearers (1939), Lagos, themed: “Islam and Family Values: Building a Nation of Citizens”, held at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, emphasising that by fostering these principles in their homes and communities, they are not only enriching their lives but also laying the groundwork for a nation that is rooted in integrity, unity and progress.
He noted that it is only through a collective responsibility guided by faith, respect, and love that Nigerians can build a nation of responsible, compassionate, and ethical citizens. He called on all Nigerians to work together, hand in hand, to uphold these timeless values and make the country a beacon of hope, peace, and prosperity.
According to the Deputy Governor, “As we look to the future, let us renew our commitment to upholding Islamic and family values. By fostering these principles in our homes and communities, we are not only enriching our own lives but also laying the groundwork for a nation rooted in integrity, unity, and progress”.
Speaking further, Hamzat re-emphasised that for a nation to flourish, it must cultivate citizens who are responsible, committed to ethical behaviour, and aware of their role in society’s progress, noting that Islam and family values give the moral compass to foster these qualities.
“Islamic values, and by implication, family values that are entrenched in the teachings of Allah encourage community engagement. By embracing the Islamic principles of charity and community service, families can inspire younger generations to volunteer, engage in public service, and contribute to societal well-being and promote empathy and understanding”, the Deputy Governor said.
Furthermore, Hamzat elucidated that building a virile nation has its core roots in family values as the family is often described as the cornerstone of society, the very bedrock upon which communities are built. He added that when families are strong and grounded in values, they produce individuals who are equipped to contribute positively to society.
He reiterated that the family being the undisputable bedrock on which other institutions depend and are populated, it would be catastrophic, if society did not pay attention to a compelling issue such as family values, saying, “Every other effort might well be an attempt to build, in practical terms, something on nothing”.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Chairman of the Crescent Bearers (1939), Lagos, Bearer Abdulwasiu Ayodele Martins paid glowing tributes to the founding fathers of the society for their initiatives, foresight, and objectives of the society.
He said the Crescent Bearers (1939), Lagos remains faithful and committed to the objectives set by the founding fathers and continues to foster the lofty ideas of Islam.
The Chairman added that since its inception, the society has awarded educational scholarships to over 450 Muslim students in tertiary institutions of learning across the state.
He gave praises and adoration to the Almighty Allah for keeping the society for the past 85 years despite all odds and challenges with a promise to keep the flag flying.
In her lecture, the Founder of Maryam Lemu Marriage Academy, Mrs. Maryam Lemu, titled: “Islam and Family Values-Building a Nation of Citizens”, stated that the parents are the best and primary teachers to their children, as they must lead by example, adding that their actions shape their children’s lives, ultimately contributing to the betterment of society.
Mrs. Lemu noted that parents’ sacrifices and devotion to their children’s well-being demonstrate their commitment to raising responsible and compassionate individuals.
“As parents, our actions are the best teacher to our children. We lead by example, by doing what is right, being passionate about others, and being a good ambassador to people around us. By doing this we are not only encouraging them to be good but also preparing for our old ages”, she said.
Speaking further, Mrs. Lemu urged all Nigerians to ensure that they leave things better than they met them and leave a good legacy, adding that they should always do something that will have a positive impact and change in society.
She also stated that Muslim Ullamus should always make a difference in their respective corners, and be passionate about the development and growth of the people around them.
