… Receives Beacon of Islam Award
Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat has urged Muslims in the country to draw inspiration from the exemplary life of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), by embracing virtues such as honesty, perseverance, and patience, to create a more prosperous Nigeria.
Dr. Obafemi Hamzat gave the admonishment today when he was conferred with the Beacon of Islam (Peace) award by the Lagos Central Mosque during the Maolud Nabiyyi Celebration with the theme: “Prophet Mohammed (SAW) the Mercy to Mankind”, held at the Lagos Central Mosque, Nnamdi Azikwe Street, Lagos.
The Deputy Governor added that the Islamic faithful must learn from the behaviour and attitude of the Holy Prophet which includes honesty, service to humanity and patience among others as they cannot effectively interact and cohabit peacefully with others without having these traits.
He said, “We must all learn from the behaviour of the Prophet Mohammed (SAW) honesty, perseverance, and patience. And we cannot interact without having patience. We must also be able to absorb nice behaviour but most importantly be honest in our doings”.
The Deputy Governor emphasised that for Nigeria to progress and become a better place for all, citizens and leaders must imbibe the good behaviour of the prophet and draw inspiration from effective global leaders who have successfully governed their nations, incorporating their positive traits into their own leadership and daily lives.
Hamzat further encouraged Muslims to be their brother’s keepers by supporting and caring for fellow Muslims and even non-Muslims in their community who may be struggling, adding that if they practise it, the world will be a better place for everyone to live.
Speaking further, he urged Nigerians to continue to pray for the leadership of the country as the situation in the country is overwhelming. The Deputy Governor called for understanding and patience from citizens as things will surely get better.
Commenting on the award presented to him by the Lagos State Central Mosque in recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Hamzat stated that the award is to motivate Muslims to exhibit good character, have exemplary behaviour, and serve as role models, inspiring others to follow their positive example, adding that their actions are being observed and will be appreciated by others.
“We need to behave well, we need to be humble and we need to respect ourselves and make sure that we promote peace. Though, there will be disagreements here and there, but we must always promote peace”, Hamzat said
Earlier in his welcome address, the Baba Adinnu of Lagos, Alhaji Sikiru Alabi-Macfoy stated that the celebration of the Birthday of Prophet Mohammed (SAW) is a way to honour the Prophet’s legacy and teachings, and its benefits extend beyond the day itself, influencing daily life and spiritual growth.
Alhaji Alabi-Macfoy said, “We are grateful that we are celebrating the birth of Prophet Mohammed (SAW) today. The occasion encourages Muslims to reflect on their actions, intentions, and goals, leading to self-improvement and personal growth in Islam”.
In his lecture, titled: “Prophet Mohammed (SAW) The Mercy to Mankind”, Sheikh Muyedeen Ajani Bello noted that some of the virtues that Prophet Mohammed (SAW) had are truthfulness, righteousness, peace, honesty, service to humanity, among others, which are also expected from Muslims who follow the teaching of the Prophet.
Sheikh Ajani Bello therefore emphasised that Muslims should emulate the teachings of the Prophet and strive to embody His characteristics while striving to overcome their flaws and shortcomings to create a positive impact on humanity.
He further encouraged believers to build a society founded on love, truth, and peace, where individuals can thrive and grow together in harmony. “Muslims in Lagos and Nigeria need to be peaceful with each other, be caring to each other, and help each other. Nobody should live uncomfortably because of you. We are one family in Islam and nobody should be hungry in your presence. Be your brother’s keeper”, Sheikh said.
