Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has called for greater recognition of the Armed Forces for their efforts in securing the nation.
Sanwo-Olu made the call at a Jumaat Service commemorating the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque, Alausa on Friday.
The Governor was represented by his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat.
Sanwo-Olu emphasised the need to acknowledge the sacrifices and successes of military personnel, which are often underreported.
Sanwo-Olu also called on Nigerians to support widows of fallen heroes, stating that it’s a meaningful way to appreciate their sacrifice.
He directed the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation to incorporate these widows into empowerment programmes.
He said: “The Armed Forces Remembrance Day provides an opportunity to pray for the souls of fallen heroes, for the safety of those currently serving, and for the well-being of their families”.
The governor reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to military families welfare, citing regular engagements with widows and renovation of military barracks.
Sanwo-Olu decried the tendency to associate terrorism with Islam, stressing that many Muslims are law-abiding citizens contributing positively to society.
He further urged Muslim leaders to project positive narratives and values, highlighting the importance of distinguishing between terrorism and peaceful citizens.
The governor also emphasised the importance of parental guidance, urging parents to raise children with strong moral and godly values.
Sanwo-Olu noted that proper home training shapes responsible citizens and determines Nigeria’s future.
In his goodwill message, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Maj.-Gen Farouk Mijinyawa, urged Nigerians to continue praying for and cooperating with the Armed Forces as they protect the nation.
Represented by Brig.-Gen. Ibrahim Sheriff, Mijinyawa emphasised the importance of honoring the armed forces, praying for fallen heroes, and remembering serving members .
Mijinyawa noted the sacrifices made by the Armed forces in protecting Nigerians amidst numerous security challenges across the country.
He expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government and residents for their support, urging them to sustain their prayers and cooperation with security personnel.
Earlier in his sermon, Dr Sa’eid Ahmad, the Chief Imam of Lagos Secretariat Community Mosques, said the security of the country is a collective one that rests on every citizen.
The cleric emphasised that addressing communal security challenges was not limited to only men and women in uniform, but the duty of all.
“If each and every one of us takes it upon ourselves to act, speak, behave, and interact with our fellow countrymen in a safe and responsible manner, each such individual becomes one less problem for the security agencies to worry about.
“For every God-fearing and law-abiding citizen, there is one less potential criminal for the police to contend with.
“Likewise, for every responsible citizen who carries out their work, faith, and other endeavours in a safe and secure manner, there is one less area of concern for authorities in protecting lives and property,” he said
The cleric further noted that when citizens cultivate a sound inner life guided by the fear of God, self-control, and respect for human life, it reflected in their actions.
He explained that a peaceful and secure nation could only be built when individuals first achieve peace within themselves.
According to him, inner values ultimately shape outward conduct and collective harmony.
