Independence: Lagos Dep. Gov. Hamzat calls for patience on reforms

By Anita Edeigba

The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadri Hamzat, has called on Nigerians to remain patient with ongoing reforms aimed at reviving agriculture and stabilising the national economy.

Hamzat made the remarks during the 65th National Independence Day celebration, organised by the Ministry of Home Affairs, which was dedicated to Jumat service at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque on CBD Road, Alausa, Ikeja.

He emphasised that the revival of agricultural estates is a central component of government plans.

Addressing tax reforms, Hamzat described them as “a bold step taken by the government to stabilise Nigeria’s economy.”

“So for the first time, we had a president that said, look, democracy is about taxation and the rule of law, and he’s trying to reform the taxation law,” he said.

He likened the reforms to a painful medical procedure that is necessary to prevent greater harm.

“There is no medicine for fever that tastes sweet,” he added.

On the removal of the fuel subsidy, Hamzat explained that the measure was intended to prioritise national development.

“A situation where the oil subsidy budget is bigger than your total budget for education, roads and health services, are we going to be drinking oil? So that’s the essence, is to make sure that we do things that ultimately benefit the future of the world,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to pray for the president and remain patient as the reforms gradually begin to reduce prices and strengthen the economy.

In addition, Hamzat encouraged parents to instill positive values in their children and monitor their engagement with artificial intelligence (AI).

“Train your children, if not AI will train them, and it will bring out negative results. As Muslims, it is very important we learn how to train our children,” he said.

He also called on Imams to provide guidance to the community.

“The Imams must teach us the way of Allah as it relates to families,” he added.