Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum has called for a society founded on equity, justice and mutual respect as the pathway to peaceful coexistence and national unity in Nigeria.
The governor expressed concern over what he described as moral and social decline in the country, stressing that collective action is required to reverse the trend.
Zulum spoke in a message delivered by his deputy, Umar Usman Kadafur, at the 31st Pre-Ramadan Lecture organised by the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni held at the J.F. Ade Ajayi Main Auditorium of the University of Lagos.
He described Ramadan as a period of moral and social transformation, noting that both Muslims and non-Muslims benefit from the atmosphere of discipline and peace the season encourages.
Meanwhile, Mudashiru Obasa, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, said security should not be left to government and security agencies alone.
He linked insecurity largely to poverty and stressed that transparency, fairness, compassion for the vulnerable and improved healthcare are essential to achieving peace.
According to him, security is also an act of worship expressed through selfless deeds that protect communities and promote unity, adding that sustained interfaith dialogue and supportive legislation have helped strengthen harmony.
Delivering the main lecture, Ishaq Oloyede, Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board, described insecurity as a national crisis affecting all groups, including Muslims.
Speaking on Muslims: The Challenge of National Security, he said insecurity reflects a breakdown of trust, governance and moral responsibility, urging Nigerians to avoid religious blame and instead address its multiple causes.
He also advocated stronger moral education for youths and partnerships that respect the rights of others.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Folashade Ogunsola, Prof. Olufemi Shuaib said the lecture serves as a platform for reflection and national development dialogue.
In his welcome address, President of the association, Dr Abdulmumin Alao, reaffirmed support for democracy and urged Independent National Electoral Commission to continually improve the electoral process to ensure credible elections.
Also speaking, the Chief Imam of Lekki Central Mosque, Dr Ridwan Jamiu, encouraged Muslims to follow the Sunnah and pursue knowledge as a guide to righteous living and closeness to Allah.
The event attracted several dignitaries including lawmakers, academics and government officials from across the country.
Written by Taoreed Abdullah