The Governor who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat at the Launch of Ten Billion Naira Endowment Fund by the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN), today at Oriental Hotels, Victoria Island, Lagos, stated that meaningful development can only take place in a peaceful environment.
Sanwo-Olu therefore commended the efforts of religious leaders who have contributed to the peaceful existence within the state in ensuring that Lagosians continue to live in peace despite religious differences.
He appreciated the cooperation of the different religious organizations stating that his administration has always enjoyed the timely intervention in proffering apt solutions to issues.
He however urged the Ummah to continue to pray for the Government to succeed in the task of providing leadership under challenging circumstances.
Speaking on the Launch, the Governor noted that the purpose of the launch is to build an International Resource Centre which would be of immense benefit to all Muslims and the members of the community.
Sanwo-Olu reiterated that the project upon its completion will be a unifying center that will encourage a healthy sharing of ideas and development of mutual respect for the community at large.
He added that “the project will create access to resources such as finance and education which is very relevant in view of the intolerance that has been observed within the country in recent times”.
The Governor also appreciated the leadership of the MUSWEN for their foresight, generosity of spirit and for allowing the teachings of peace and brotherliness to dictate their thoughts and actions.
While speaking on the 2023 general election, Governor Sanwo-Olu charged Nigerians to ensure that they enlighten, educate and encourage members of their families, friends, and others on eschewing electoral violence, negative tendencies and pursue peace at all times.
In his address, the Chief Host, Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence, Alhaji, Dr. Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III admonished the Muslims to continue to advocate the need for a united Islam and not allow any intrusion particularly during the election period.
Speaking further on oneness, the Sultan stated that “Muslims have no business with poverty if we are helpful to one another, there is no need for Muslims to be poor, if we follow the standard of Islam, help one another, pay Zakat and other instructions of Allah”.
He noted that the International Resource Centre project is for the entire Ummah and not just the Ummahs in the South West because a lot of people will definitely benefit from it, as it will elevate the standard of lives of Muslims and non-Muslims.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Chairman, Muslim Ummah of Southern West Nigeria (MUSWEN), Alhaji Dr. Sulaymaniyah Adegunwa stated that the endorsement fund will help strengthen Muslims of the South West and bequeath enduring legacy to the future generation which will enable them compete favorably with their peers anywhere in the world.
He added that the fund will enable MUSWEN implement its purposeful researches, identified programmes and projects.
Similarly, in his sermon, the National Missioner, Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Imam AbdurRahman Ahmad admonished everyone to trade with Allah and invest in projects that can never crash, drop and stable.
He stated that “individuals who want their accounts to be perpetually credited even in graves should trade with Allah”
