Sanwo-Olu Reaffirms Needs For Coordinated Faith Leadership

Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has reiterated the importance of stronger collaboration between the government and religious leaders, describing Alfas, Pastors, Imams, and other spiritual figures as essential partners in shaping public understanding and countering misinformation. Speaking at a Capacity Training and Enhancement Workshop for Imams and Ulama in Lagos State, themed “Enhancing the Partnership of Spiritual Leaders and Government in Nation Building,” the Governor represented by his Deputy, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat stressed that messages delivered from the pulpit carry significant influence and can help citizens better appreciate government intentions and developmental plans.

Sanwo-Olu noted that religious leaders serve as trusted intermediaries within communities, making their support pivotal for communicating accurate information and strengthening public confidence. He cautioned that failing to actively engage these key faith actors places the government at a disadvantage, as their voices reach the grassroots more effectively. The Governor also expressed concern about declining religious identity among the younger generation and urged faith leaders to work collectively to reinforce values and preserve religious heritage.

The Governor further emphasized the need to strengthen the Nigerian Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) as a platform that unites Muslim and Christian leaders in resolving disputes and fostering peace across communities. He highlighted the growing trend of individuals neglecting societal responsibilities but assured that the government is committed to taking firm steps to address such issues and support moral and community stability.

Delivering a lecture titled “Promoting Self-Reliance and Economic Empowerment of Spiritual Leaders,” the Special Adviser on Islamic Matters, Alh. Jebe Abdullahi Ahmad, called for increased efforts to support the financial independence of spiritual leaders. He argued that empowered Imams and religious leaders, equipped with vocational skills, entrepreneurship opportunities, and access to state empowerment schemes like LSETF, contribute more effectively to stable and progressive communities. He encouraged religious leaders to balance spiritual commitment with lawful economic productivity, following the example of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).

In another lecture, “The Imam as the Bridge of Trust between Government and the People,” Sheikh Abdur’Rahman Olanrewaju Ahmad, National Missioner of Ansar-ud-deen Society of Nigeria, underscored the indispensable role of clerics in explaining government policies and guiding public morality. Earlier, the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Sulaiman Oluwatoyin Abou-Nolla, welcomed participants by highlighting the necessity of synergy between governance and faith institutions. He noted that such collaboration offers hope in a world facing social and economic challenges and provides a platform for shared values and collective wisdom to drive sustainable national development.