Why parents must pay more attention to their Children – Sanwo-Olu

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has stressed that responsible parenting, moral upbringing and active family involvement remain critical to raising children who will contribute positively to society and become future leaders.

The governor made the assertion during the 2026 Eid-ul-Adha celebration held at Lagos House, Ikeja, where he called on parents and guardians to play a more deliberate role in shaping the character, values and aspirations of their children.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Sanwo-Olu said the lessons of Eid-ul-Adha and the example of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) offer valuable guidance for families seeking to build strong foundations for future generations.

According to him, parents must go beyond providing material needs and prayers for their children by offering consistent guidance rooted in sound moral, religious and educational principles.

He noted that Prophet Ibrahim’s life exemplified obedience, sacrifice, patience and unwavering devotion to God, virtues that remain relevant in addressing contemporary social challenges.

“As parents and guardians, it is important to teach our children the importance of faith, discipline and respect for human life,” Sanwo-Olu said.

“The human body is a trust from Almighty Allah and should not be abused through harmful substances or destructive behaviour. Responsible parenting remains a key factor in preventing social vices and ensuring that children grow up with the right values and sense of purpose.”

The governor urged parents to cultivate open communication within their families by listening to their children, respecting their opinions and encouraging healthy dialogue.

He maintained that children thrive in environments where mutual respect, understanding and guidance are prioritised, adding that every parent naturally desires a future in which their children surpass their achievements.

Sanwo-Olu also highlighted the efforts of the Lagos State Government to strengthen family values and social welfare through policies and intervention programmes aimed at supporting vulnerable families and addressing social challenges.

He said the state has established institutions and agencies focused on tackling domestic violence, resolving family disputes and promoting social stability across communities.

Earlier, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, described Eid-ul-Adha as a season of reflection on faith, sacrifice, obedience and total submission to the will of God.

She urged Lagos residents to embrace unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence irrespective of ethnic, religious or social differences, noting that diversity remains one of Lagos State’s greatest assets.

“The theme of this celebration reminds us of the importance of steadfastness in faith, righteousness and unwavering devotion to God,” she said.

“It calls on us to live lives guided by integrity, compassion, humility and peaceful coexistence. Together, we can continue to build a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive Lagos State.”

The First Lady also challenged parents and guardians to instil discipline, good morals and the fear of God in children and young people, describing them as future leaders whose values will shape the society of tomorrow.

Delivering a lecture titled ‘Modelling Our Families After the Family of Khalilullah Ibrahim (AS) for a Successful Life and a Greater Nigeria,’ the Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Imam Ridwan Jamiu, echoed the call for stronger family values.

He described the family as the bedrock of every successful society and urged parents to nurture homes founded on faith, love, tolerance and mutual respect.

The cleric encouraged parents to seek and value the opinions of their children, saying such engagement promotes confidence, understanding and responsible behaviour.

He added that Islam teaches believers to live purposeful lives devoted to the worship of Allah while making meaningful contributions to national development.

The Eid-ul-Adha celebration brought together religious leaders, government officials, traditional rulers, community leaders and residents in a collective call for stronger families, responsible parenting and a more harmonious society.