Eid-el-Kabir: Sanwo-Olu’s wife sends powerful message to Lagosians

The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has called on residents to uphold the virtues of faith, sacrifice, unity and peaceful coexistence as Muslims across the state celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.

Speaking at the 2026 (1447 AH) Eid-ul-Adha celebration organised by the First Family of Lagos State in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs at Lagos House, Ikeja, on Sunday, the First Lady said the festival offers an opportunity for deep reflection on the enduring lessons of obedience, devotion and submission to the will of God as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.

Addressing religious leaders, traditional rulers, government officials, community leaders, women and youths at the gathering, Sanwo-Olu stressed the need for Lagosians to remain steadfast in their faith while embracing values that promote harmony and societal progress.

Drawing from the theme of the celebration, taken from Chapter 2 Verse 132 of the Holy Qur’an, she said the message serves as a reminder of the importance of righteousness, integrity, compassion and humility in everyday life.

According to her, the lessons of Eid-ul-Adha are particularly relevant to Lagos, a state renowned for its cultural, ethnic and religious diversity.

She urged residents to continue nurturing the spirit of tolerance, mutual respect and love, noting that the state’s diversity remains one of its greatest strengths.

“Our diversity is a blessing and a source of strength. By embracing unity and peaceful coexistence, we can continue to build a prosperous and inclusive Lagos where everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” she said.

The First Lady also used the occasion to encourage parents and guardians to play a more active role in shaping the moral and spiritual development of children and young people.

She emphasised the importance of instilling discipline, good character and the fear of God in the younger generation, describing them as the future leaders upon whom the continued progress of society depends.

Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed the commitment of her office to youth development and value-based leadership, citing recent initiatives aimed at empowering young people through education, mentorship and personal development programmes.

She referenced the recently organised Muslim Sisters Seminar, which featured discussions on success from an Islamic perspective, security awareness, health education and other issues designed to equip participants with practical knowledge and life skills.

The First Lady also commended the Ministry of Home Affairs and other stakeholders for their efforts in promoting religious harmony and fostering peaceful coexistence across Lagos State.

She expressed optimism that the values associated with Eid-ul-Adha would continue to inspire residents to contribute positively to the growth and development of the state.

Offering prayers for the nation, Sanwo-Olu asked Almighty Allah to accept the sacrifices and acts of worship of the faithful, bless families, and grant lasting peace, prosperity and progress to Lagos State and Nigeria.