Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State, has called for unity among Nigerians to unlock the country's potential. He made this statement at the 66th National Independence Day Special Jumat Service and prayers, held at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central mosque, Alausa, Ikeja. Hamzat emphasized that Nigeria has the talent, resources, and ability to become a leading nation, but is hindered by disunity among its citizens.
According to Hamzat, one of Nigeria's major challenges is that citizens are not united and do not have a common purpose. He cited countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and China, which have made significant progress due to unity among their people. Hamzat noted that these countries have achieved great things despite their differences, and that Nigeria can do the same if its citizens are united.
Hamzat recalled a visit to Singapore with former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, where they met former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. Lee Kuan Yew transformed Singapore, a resource-limited country, into one of the best countries in the world. Hamzat noted that Nigeria, unlike Singapore, has abundant resources, and that "talent has never been our challenge. It's division that is our problem."
The Deputy Governor of Lagos State also expressed concern about population growth without corresponding responsibility, particularly among parents in taking care of their families. He emphasized that building a better Nigeria requires the participation of government, religious institutions, traditional institutions, the private sector, and citizens. Hamzat stressed that everyone has a role to play in building a better Nigeria.
Hamzat's statement comes as Nigeria celebrates its 66th National Independence Day. The country has been facing various challenges, including economic instability, insecurity, and social unrest. Hamzat's call for unity is seen as a timely reminder of the need for Nigerians to come together to address these challenges.
The 66th National Independence Day Special Jumat Service and prayers was attended by various dignitaries, including government officials, traditional leaders, and citizens. The event was held at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central mosque, Alausa, Ikeja. Hamzat's speech was well-received by attendees, who acknowledged the need for unity and cooperation to move the country forward.
As Nigeria moves forward, Hamzat's call for unity and cooperation is expected to resonate with citizens and leaders alike. The country has the potential to become a leading nation, but it requires a collective effort from all Nigerians to address its challenges and unlock its potential.
Key points
- Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State, calls for unity among Nigerians to unlock the country's potential.
- Hamzat cites countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, the United States, and China as examples of nations that have made significant progress due to unity among their people.
- Hamzat emphasizes that building a better Nigeria requires the participation of government, religious institutions, traditional institutions, the private sector, and citizens.
