‘Gratitude and contentment,’ What Former governor, Ex-NDIC boss, National Imam, Etse Nupe, others said at the historic occasion + PHOTOS
Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has led the commissioning of the Odo Noforija Kingdom Ultra Modern Central Mosque, built by the monarch of the Odo Noforija Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Babatunde Ola Ogunlaja, and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Al Hujaaj International Umrah and Hajj Services Limited, Alhaji Abdul Jelili Animashaun.
Hamzat at the occasion, called on Nigerians to pray for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to sustain peace, stability and accelerated development in the country.
The mosque features a striking minaret, dome adorned with Arabic inscriptions, a spacious prayer hall with separate sections for male and female worshippers. It is designed to accommodate large congregations during Jumu’ah prayers and other Islamic gatherings.
Dr Hamzat urged Nigerians to support the President with prayers, saying national progress depends on unity, patience and collective responsibility.
He said, “We must continue to pray for our President because when a nation is united in prayer and purpose, progress becomes more sustainable. A growing nation requires optimism, discipline and goodwill from its people”.
The Deputy Governor urged citizens to remain patient with the government and avoid actions capable of destabilising the country, warning against those seeking to divide the nation.
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He commended those who sponsored the mosque project, especially the monarch, Dr Babatunde Ola Ogunlaja, a Christian, and Alhaji Abdul Jelili Animashaun, a Muslim philanthropist, describing their collaboration as a demonstration of religious harmony.
Dr. Hamzat noted that building a mosque attracts divine reward and praised the spirit of unity behind the project.
The Deputy Governor conveyed the message of the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was represented by the Special Assistant on Public Affairs and Strategy, Hon. Alawiye King, saying the First Lady expressed joy over the positive developments in Epe and prayed for continued progress in the community.
Ex-NDIC boss preaches gratitude and contentment
Former Chairman of the Nigeria Deposit Insurance Corporation, NDIC, Hon. AbdulHakeem AbdulLateef stressed the importance of gratitude and contentment, urging Muslims to reflect deeply on the blessings of Allah.
He said, “If you think those engaged in religion are doing too much, then look at yourself in the mirror and reflect on the countless blessings Allah has given you.”
Dr. AbdulLateef explained that the gift of life and abilities are divine blessings that cannot be purchased, saying believers must constantly show appreciation to Allah for sight, speech, health, and every aspect of existence.
He warned that ingratitude is a serious spiritual failing, noting that people often fail to appreciate the One who grants them life and sustenance. He said “To whom much is given, much is expected,” urging believers to reflect on their responsibilities.
The former Commissioner for Home Affairs in Lagos State added that Islam is founded on gratitude, humility and devotion, while commending the community leaders for providing a befitting mosque for worshippers in Epe.
Former Minister Fashola hails ‘harmony of faith’ in Epe
Former Governor of Lagos State and former Minister of Works, Mr Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, described the mosque commissioning as a powerful symbol of interfaith harmony.
He said, “We have not just come to dedicate a mosque, we have come to send a message of harmony of faith.”
According to him, the collaboration between Christians and Muslims in building the Mosque shows that religious diversity can strengthen society.
He added, “When the world misunderstands us, some of the best among us can come together and say we are not like that.”
Mr. Fashola who revealed that the foundation for the mosque project was unknowingly laid during a memorial gathering held in his residence on 5 August 2023 in honour of his late father said his presence at the commissioning further strengthened the symbolic message of unity behind the project.
He recalled historical examples of interfaith cooperation in Nigeria, citing the late Chief MKO Abiola, who he said contributed significantly to the building of a Catholic church despite being a Muslim.
Mr. Fashola noted that such examples show that religious differences have never stopped Nigerians from supporting one another in acts of faith and community development.
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