By Peace Udugba -The daily torch media
The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, alongside Lagos State Deputy Governor, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has emphasised the need for religious tolerance and unity as a pathway to sustainable national development.
They made this call on Friday during the commissioning of the ultra-modern central mosque in Odo-Noforija.
Represented by her Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs and Strategy, Wahab Alawiye-King, the First Lady noted that Islamic teachings promote tolerance, compassion, and service to humanity, regardless of religious differences. She urged Nigerians to see the country’s diversity as a strength rather than a source of division.
Hamzat, in his remarks, stressed that peaceful coexistence remains critical to national growth, adding that Nigeria can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity and mutual understanding. He also called on citizens to pray for the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, expressing confidence in his leadership.
Also speaking at the event, former Lagos State Governor and Minister of Works, Babatunde Raji Fashola, described the mosque project as a symbol of interfaith harmony. He highlighted the collaboration between the Aladeshonyin of Odo-Noforija, Oba Babatunde Olaogun Ogunlaja, and Alhaji Abdul Jelil Animashaun, noting that such partnerships reflect Nigeria’s capacity for unity despite religious differences.
Fashola recalled a similar gesture during the era of the late Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, who built a church, describing the current development as a continuation of that legacy of unity.
In his keynote address, the Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar, commended the initiative, describing it as a strong example of peaceful coexistence. He expressed hope that such harmony would be replicated across Nigeria.
Earlier, the Aladeshonyin and Paramount Ruler of Odo-Noforija Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Olaogun Ogunlaja, described the mosque as a “divine fulfilment” and a symbol of unity, faith, and progress. He noted that the project represents a transition from the old Ratibi Mosque to a modern edifice that will serve the community and beyond.
Delivering a lecture titled “Think of Your Tomorrow,” Islamic scholar Abdulhakeem Abdullateef urged Muslims to remain steadfast in good deeds, stressing that actions taken today will shape the future. He also encouraged Nigerians to emulate the spirit of unity demonstrated in the construction of the mosque, noting that the project was supported by individuals across religious lines.
The event attracted traditional rulers, government officials, and religious leaders, all of whom reiterated the importance of unity and peaceful coexistence in national development.
L-R: Oloja of Epe, Oba Kamorudeen Animashaun; Lagos State Deputy Governor, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat; representative of the First Lady of Nigeria, Wahab Alawiye-King; Etsu Nupe, Yahaya Abubakar; and the Aladeshonyin of Odo-Noforija Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Olaogun Ogunlaja, during the commissioning of the ultra-modern central mosque in Odo-Noforija at the weekend.
