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Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State Governor, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving the religious harmony that has long remained one of the State’s greatest strengths, assuring residents that every faith community will be free to worship, coexist peacefully and contribute meaningfully to the development and progress of Lagos.
The Governor, who was represented by Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat his Deputy gave the assurance on Wednesday at the Golden Jubilee International Annual Convention of The Apostolic Church Nigeria, LAWNA Territory, held at Olorunda-Ketu, Lagos, where he congratulated the Church on its 50th anniversary and commended its contributions to spiritual development, community building and nation-building.
He said the shared values of faith, unity, peace and service strongly resonate with the vision of his administration, noting that faith-based organisations remain indispensable partners in building a prosperous, inclusive, secure and resilient Lagos.
According to him, “As a government, we recognise that faith-based organisations remain indispensable partners in development. While the government provides infrastructure and public services, institutions such as The Apostolic Church help build character, strengthen families, promote peace, encourage responsible citizenship, and nurture the moral values upon which every prosperous society depends.”
The Governor noted that as Lagos continues to grow, the government remains committed to improving infrastructure around major public institutions, particularly places of worship that attract thousands of people during major gatherings.
While restating plans to construct a pedestrian overhead bridge to serve The Apostolic Church Nigeria, LAWNA Territory’s Convention Ground at Olorunda-Ketu, Sanwo-Olu said the project underscored his administration’s commitment to people-centred development and public safety, stressing that investments in public infrastructure are ultimately investments in human lives and the growth and wellbeing of communities.
He, therefore, encouraged members of The Apostolic Church Nigeria to remain steadfast in their mission of evangelism, righteous living, youth mentorship and compassionate service, stressing that the challenges of the time require institutions that inspire hope, strengthen families, promote unity and nurture citizens guided by faith, integrity and commitment to the common good.
Bishop Stephen Adegbite, Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Lagos State chapter in his goodwill message, commended Lagos State Government’s commitment to the faith-based groups, citing an example of construction of a pedestrian overhead bridge to serve the Convention Ground, noting that the project would enhance the safety and accessibility of worshippers and residents in the area.
While applauding Dr. Hamzat for his calm disposition, quality leadership and effective collaboration with the Governor, Adegbite expressed Lagos CAN’s support for the Deputy Governor, describing him as a dependable partner with whom the Christian community can work towards advancing the development and progress of Lagos State.
Pastor Moses Oluwole Ogunibe, LAWMNA Territorial Chairman in his welcome address, stated that the Church has continued to complement government efforts through various effective initiatives, such as youth empowerment, professional skills, inter-curricular training, leadership development, career guidance and empowerment support, affirming its readiness to partner with the Lagos State Government.
He stressed that stronger collaboration between government and faith-based institutions would contribute to a safer, stronger and more prosperous society, adding that “We remain committed to promoting peace, moral values, youth development, quality education, humanitarian service and community transformation in Nigeria, particularly Lagos State.”
Ogunibe emphasised the importance of prayer for the nation and those in positions of authority, noting that its assemblies across Nigeria and beyond consistently pray for peace, security, economic prosperity, justice, unity and good governance.
