By Ebunoluwa Sessou & Boluwatife Adeyefa

The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa, has called on Nigerians, particularly Muslims, to embrace tolerance, mutual understanding and active participation in initiatives that promote peace, security and national cohesion.

Obasa made the call on Wednesday at the 17th Annual Hijrah 1448AH Lecture and Du’a organised by the Lagos State House of Assembly at the Assembly Complex in Alausa, Ikeja.

The event, themed “Sacred Covenant of Citizenship: Islam, Security and Our Duty to the Nigerian State,” brought together Islamic scholars, military officers, lawmakers, government officials and members of the public to reflect on the role of citizens in fostering peace and security in the country.

The programme commenced with the recitation of verses from the Holy Quran by Ustaz Yakub Obanikoro, followed by an English translation by Ustaz Jubril Habeeb.

In his welcome address, Chairman of the Hijrah 1448AH Planning Committee, Hon. Ajani Ibrahim Owolabi, said the theme was carefully chosen to address prevailing national concerns, particularly issues relating to security and responsible citizenship.

Owolabi commended the Lagos Assembly for sustaining the annual lecture series for 17 years, describing it as a demonstration of the legislature’s commitment to advocacy, enlightenment and public engagement.

According to him, the gathering provided an opportunity for spiritual reflection, thanksgiving and renewal of faith among participants.

Delivering the first lecture, Islamic scholar, Sheikh Bukhari Ayinla, spoke on the historical significance of Hijrah and the responsibilities of citizens in nation-building. He stressed the need for individuals to contribute meaningfully to efforts aimed at maintaining peace and security within their communities.

The second guest lecturer, Air Commodore Lukman Lawal, highlighted the efforts of the Nigerian military in combating insurgency, banditry and other security threats across the country.

Lawal explained that the Armed Forces had adopted both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches in tackling insecurity and restoring peace in troubled areas.

He, however, expressed concern over the growing spread of misinformation and fake news on social media, warning that such reports often undermine security operations and create unnecessary fear among citizens.

The military officer urged Nigerians to support security agencies through prayers, cooperation and the provision of credible intelligence that could aid security operations.

Also speaking, Sheikh Abduraheem Salaty (Albaarizy) emphasized the importance of vigilance and civic responsibility, urging citizens to make positive contributions to society.

According to him, greater public commitment to peace, honesty and social responsibility would strengthen trust, improve security and accelerate national development.

In his remarks, Speaker Obasa stressed the need for citizens to actively support programmes and policies that promote peace, security, unity and national development.

“It is imperative that citizens actively participate in supporting and promoting initiatives that champion peace, security, unity and national cohesion, recognizing that these values are essential for the overall well-being of society,” he said.

The Speaker also encouraged residents to maintain cordial relationships with security agencies in their communities and contribute positively to nation-building.

Earlier, lawmakers and participants at the event offered prayers for peace, stability and progress in Lagos State and Nigeria.

Giving the vote of thanks, the Clerk of the House, Mrs. Adenike Oshinowo, expressed appreciation to the Speaker for his continuous support towards the annual programme and prayed for God’s guidance and protection for all those who attended the event.

The annual Hijrah lecture has become a major platform for religious reflection, civic engagement and discussions on issues affecting national development, peace and security.