Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has issued a strong call for sustained empowerment and welfare support for the widows of Nigeria's fallen military heroes. He made this appeal during a special Jumat service held to commemorate the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque in Alausa.
A Plea for Sustained Support for Military Families
Speaking at the solemn event on Friday, Dr. Hamzat emphasised that prioritising the well-being of the families left behind by soldiers is a fundamental duty. He stressed that welfare programmes, regular financial aid, and concrete empowerment initiatives are not mere acts of charity but vital recognition of the ultimate sacrifice made by members of the armed forces.
The Deputy Governor directed a specific appeal to the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, urging the ministry to channel significant efforts towards providing robust support for these vulnerable widows. He framed this support as a crucial part of honouring the memory of those who risked their lives for national security.
Countering Negative Narratives and Promoting Peace
During his address, Dr. Hamzat also expressed deep concern over the frequent portrayal of Muslims as terrorists in global discourse. He firmly stated that the teachings of Islam advocate for peace and do not support acts of terror.
"If you are doing anything that hurts another fellow, you are not a Muslim," he asserted, referencing the Qur'an. "The Qur'an is very clear on this: if you hurt a person, it is like hurting a whole community. So you can't be a Muslim and sustain injury on people." He called on Muslim leaders to actively project the positive tenets of the religion through lectures and dialogue that counter these damaging narratives.
Imam Stresses Collective Security Responsibility
The Imam who led the Jumat prayer, Saheed Ahmad, earlier highlighted that ensuring security is a collective responsibility that extends beyond official security agencies. He argued that public safety is enhanced when every citizen acts and interacts in a lawful and secure manner.
"If each and every one of us takes it upon ourselves to act, speak, and interact in a safe and secure manner, each of those individuals will be one less problem for the security outfits to worry about," Imam Ahmad said. He paid glowing tribute to the men and women of the armed forces who died in service, stating they deserve eternal prayers and divine reward.
The Imam also cautioned the congregation against spreading rumours and unverified information, warning that such actions can seriously undermine public safety and national security.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Chairman of the House Committee on Home Affairs, Hon. AbdulKareem Jubril, and the Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro. They were flanked by heads of various security agencies, underscoring the government's unified front in remembering the nation's heroes.
