By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Hon. Babatunde Hunpe |
BADAGRY — As the holy month of Ramadan casts a serene glow over Lagos State, the Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, fMHR, has called on residents to embrace the virtues of peaceful coexistence and moral excellence.
Speaking on Tuesday at the Annual Ramadan Lecture hosted by the Unified Local Government Muslim Staff Association (Badagry Branch), Hunpe described the current season as a rare divine alignment. He noted that the simultaneous commencement of the Christian Lent and the Muslim Ramadan serves as a powerful reminder of humanity's shared spiritual journey and God’s call for harmony.
The theme of the lecture, “From Submission to Excellence: The Journey of a Rising Muslim,” set the tone for a day of deep reflection at the Council Secretariat.
The Guest Lecturer, Dr. Mustapha Adebayo Bello, a Senior Lecturer at Lagos State University (LASU), captivated the audience with a discourse on the true strength of faith. He argued that being a "rising Muslim" in 2026 requires more than ritual; it demands sound character, a thirst for knowledge, and a commitment to community development.
"True piety is found in sincerity, not public display," Dr. Bello noted. "A Muslim must be an ambassador of peace, showing empathy in times of joy and grief alike."
For Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, the lessons of Ramadan must extend beyond the walls of the mosque and the hours of fasting. He challenged the "people of the book" to let the discipline of the month reflect in their daily interactions, particularly in fostering unity within the diverse Badagry community.
The Chairman highlighted several key pillars for progress, Respecting the faith of others as a prerequisite for communal peace. Upholding law and order as a religious and civic duty. Living exemplary lives that inspire the younger generation toward excellence.