Hamzat Calls for Empowerment of Widows of Fallen Heroes

Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, has called for greater attention to the welfare, empowerment and regular financial support of widows of fallen heroes, stressing that such initiatives are essential in honouring members of the armed forces who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation.

Hamzat made the call at a special Jumat Service held at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque, Alausa, to commemorate the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day, observed annually on January 15. He urged the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to intensify efforts aimed at supporting vulnerable widows of military personnel.

He also expressed concern over the persistent portrayal of Muslims as terrorists in global political discourse, noting that Islam is a religion of peace and does not condone violence or terrorism.

According to him, anyone who inflicts harm on others cannot be regarded as a true Muslim, adding that the Qur’an clearly teaches that harming one person is akin to harming an entire community.

Hamzat further urged Muslim leaders to actively promote the positive values of Islam by delivering teachings that counter negative stereotypes and misconceptions about the religion.

Earlier, the Imam who led the Jumat prayer, Saheed Ahmad, emphasised that security is a collective responsibility and should not be left solely to security agencies.

He said the nation’s security challenges require the active participation of all citizens, noting that law-abiding and God-fearing individuals reduce the burden on security forces. He paid tribute to members of the armed forces who lost their lives in the line of duty, praying for divine rewards for their sacrifices.

The Imam also cautioned against the spread of rumours and unverified information, warning that such actions could threaten public safety and undermine national security.