The National Council of Muslim Youths Organisation (NACOMYO) in Oyo state has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for his sterling leadership in ensuring religious harmony in the state, expressing gratitude to the current administration for its contributions to the development of Islam in the state that sets the standard.
It equally lauded the Deputy Governor, Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, for his excellent representation of Muslims in the government.
Giving the commendation on Sunday in commemoration of Hijrah 1446ah, held at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan, the NACOMYO state’s coordinator, Alhaji Dawood Afolabi said Islam has witnessed significant progress in the Pace Setter’s state.
He commended Oyo Government for providing 1,047 pilgrims in the state with seamless hajj services as well as making necessary provisions including adequate accommodation, good feeding, unlimited convenience outlets, well funded transportation system and good sanitary systems.
The cordinator also expressed gratitude to other Muslim functionaries who have contributed significantly to the growth of Islam in the state, including Alhaji Hashim Abdulwahab Atere, Chairman of the State Pilgrims Welfare Board, for his outstanding performance in Makkah.
He, however, described Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, as the most experienced Deputy Governor who have continued to be a pride of Islam in the state while highlighting some of his remarkable input and contributions toward the development of Islam in the state.
The coordinator said, “We are presenting the Deputy Governor with the Dawwah Personality of the Year award in recognition of his outstanding contributions for Islam advancement of in the state.
Alhaji Afolabi congratulated the 2024 hujjajs and stated that the Hijrah 1446 Awareness Rally is not merely a commemoration of a significant historical event but a profound reminder of our collective journey as a united Ummah.
According to him, the theme “Building a More Formidable Ummah: Muslim Youth on Call”, underscores the pivotal role of our youth in shaping a brighter and more unified future for the Muslim community.
Stressing that the essence of Hijrah awareness is to remind muslims of the importance of resilience, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the faith, Afolabi called on the Muslims to reflect on the transformative power of faith and the need for unity and collaboration in the journey toward a just and compassionate society.
He added that the Hajj is not just a physical journey but a profound spiritual experience that embodies the principles of equality, humility, and submission to Allah (SW).
“It is a manifestation of the unity and diversity of the Muslim Ummah, as millions of Muslims from al corners of the world come together in a demonstration of faith and solidarity. The lessons of Hajj remind us of the importance of perseverance, self-discipline, and the spirit of brotherhood that transcends all barriers of race, nationality, and social status.
“During Hajj 2024, we witness the epitome of Islamic unity and equality. Every pilgrim, regardless of their background, dons the simple white garments of Ihram, symbolising the equality ofall believers before Allah. This powerful visual and spiritual experience underscores the message that our strength as an Ummah lies in our unity and our adherence to the principles of Islam. We must carry these lessons into our daily lives, striving to support one another and work together for the common good,” he said.
Expressing his appreciation for the honor bestowed on him and for appreciating the little efforts the government has put in place to ensure religious harmony in the state, the Deputy Governor Barrister Lawal assured that the current administration will continue to be fair to religious faiths.
He stated that Makinde administration pride itself in becoming the first state in the Southwest to declare a public holiday for Hijrah, adding that there are only five states that have done so with regard to Oyo state.
He urged other states to emulate Oyo government in declaration of free workers day to commemorate the celebration, Hijrah, noting that Hijrah 1446ah is unique in all directions across the world.
The Deputy Governor who equally assured that the Makinde administration will continue to strengthen the security architecture of the state, however tasked the people of Oyo state to also support the government in the struggle for adequate security.
He said: “Security of our people is the primary duty of our government. Government can’t do it alone. So, when you see something, say something. Don’t let us toy with the issue of security in the state particularly in the Oke-ogun zone and other areas.
“When you see strangers in the local areas, quickly call on the attention of royal fathers to tackle the issue of insecurity.
“So, on behalf of Governor Seyi Makinde, I say congratulations to all of us on the commencement of Hijrah 1446-ah, and I also announce a donation of 2.5million naira.”
On the entourage of Oyo Deputy Governor include Commissioner for Education, Prof. Soliu Abdulwaheed Adelabu; Commissioner for Budget, Musibau Babatunde ; Chairman Civil Service Commission, Alhaji Kamorudeen Aderibigbe; Chairman Oyo State Local Government Staff Pension Board, Alhaji Ademola Ige; Chairman Muslim wings, Alhaji Hashim Atere, Personal Assistant to Governor Makinde, Alhaji Akeem Azeez, and other top government functionaries.