Akiolu, Lagos Chief Imam urge Nigerians to uphold discipline, unity for national growth
The Oba Rilwan Akiolu and the Sheikh Sulaimon Abou-Nolla have called on Nigerians to prioritise discipline, tolerance and unity as essential drivers of national development.
The appeal was made during a post-Eid al-Fitr visit to the palace, where the Chief Imam said the gathering reflects a long-standing tradition symbolising the close relationship between the mosque and the Lagos royal institution.
Abou-Nolla explained that the visit, held after the Ramadan fast, was not only to seek royal blessings but also to offer prayers for peace, stability and prosperity in Lagos and across Nigeria.
He noted that such prayers are aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence among citizens, regardless of religion, ethnicity or social background.
The cleric expressed concern over rising intolerance globally, attributing it to a lack of mutual understanding and respect among people.
He stressed the need for Nigerians to embrace unity and support one another in order to strengthen social harmony.
“We need to be tolerant and be our brother’s keeper. That is the essence of this prayer—to foster unity and peaceful coexistence,” he said.
He also underscored the importance of patriotism, urging citizens to remain committed to the country while offering prayers for leaders, including the President and state governors, to guide their decisions.
Reflecting on the recently concluded Ramadan, Abou-Nolla described the fasting period as a time of spiritual training, emphasising that its lessons should not end with the season.
According to him, values such as discipline, sacrifice and the fear of God must be sustained beyond the holy month.
He noted that the relative peace and order observed during Ramadan demonstrated the impact of discipline on society, adding that such conduct is necessary for national progress.
The Chief Imam further highlighted the spirit of unity witnessed during the period, particularly the cordial relations between Muslims and Christians, and called for its continuation to strengthen national cohesion.
Speaking separately, Akiolu echoed the cleric’s position, stressing that discipline and selflessness remain critical to achieving lasting peace and sustainable development in Nigeria.
