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By Lukman Olabiyi
The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Religious Matters, Abdullahi Jebe has shared insights into how the state government, under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, continues to foster peace and religious harmony.
Speaking with journalists in Ikeja, Jebe explained that the strategy for the state’s development, originally established during President Bola Tinubu’s tenure as governor, has been refined and strengthened by subsequent administrations.
Having served as Senior Special Adviser on Religious Matters under both President Tinubu and former Governor Babatunde Fashola, Jebe highlighted the importance of coordinating religious groups in Lagos to ensure unity.
He emphasized that the state government, through his office, has cultivated strong relationships with key religious stakeholders, which has significantly contributed to the peaceful coexistence of Muslims and other religious groups in Lagos.
Jebe explained that, in the past, the government used to engage directly with religious leaders through the five divisions of the state.
“However, under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, this reach has been extended beyond the divisions, ensuring that all communities benefit from government initiatives. This was possible due to the detailed records and data maintained by the state. Religious leaders in these divisions, including Chief Imams and various Islamic organizations, scholars, and Arabic schools, are now more integrated into government programs and opportunities”.
He also mentioned the recent food palliative distribution, which was shared among the 20 local governments and 37 local council development areas, reaching all divisions of the state.
Discussing the improvements in Hajj operations, Dr. Jebe noted the significant interventions made by the Sanwo-Olu administration to ease the pilgrimage experience for Lagos residents.
He pointed out that President Tinubu, during his time as governor, had made notable contributions to easing challenges faced by pilgrims, such as addressing feeding issues at Mount Arafat and providing Ihram clothes. These efforts set the stage for the continued support for pilgrims, including Governor Sanwo-Olu’s initiatives, such as covering the cost of rams slaughtered by pilgrims, arranging visits to religious sites in Medina and Makkah, and ensuring the feeding of pilgrims at Mount Arafat.
Jebe encouraged Lagos residents to continue supporting government programs and policies and called on religious leaders to emphasize good parenting in their teachings. He stressed the importance of quality child upbringing for the development of both the state and the nation.
