A former Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Adeyemi Ikuforiji, has called on public office holders to prioritise good governance and ensure Nigerians enjoy the dividends of democracy.
Ikuforiji made the call in Lagos during the fourth edition of an Iftar organised for media practitioners.
He commended the administration of Bola Tinubu for pursuing policies which, according to him, are gradually improving governance and producing positive economic outcomes.
The former Speaker said Nigerians should reflect on the nation’s journey since independence and address the challenges that continue to hinder development.
According to him, objective observers would acknowledge the efforts being made by the current administration.
He noted that difficult decisions taken by the government were necessary steps toward addressing longstanding structural issues in the economy.
Ikuforiji also urged leaders and citizens to regularly assess government performance to strengthen accountability and improve governance.
He further encouraged Nigerians to reduce reliance on imported food and channel greater investment into agriculture as a way of strengthening the country’s economic foundation.
He said Nigeria had, for many years, depended heavily on petroleum revenues to sustain the economy while neglecting productive sectors.
Ikuforiji added that corruption had spread across different segments of society and warned that meaningful development would remain difficult unless Nigerians rethink their values and change their orientation.
Delivering a lecture titled “Islam and the Challenges of Good Governance,” Muslim scholar Abdul-Hakeem Olapade said transparency, accountability and adherence to the rule of law are essential components of good governance.
Olapade noted that Islamic teachings emphasise justice and fairness, urging leaders to manage public affairs with integrity and equity.
He said governance rooted in justice would strengthen peace and stability in the country.
Another lecturer, Mutiu Orolu, spoke on the role of Muslims in nation building.
Orolu encouraged Muslims to actively participate in civic responsibilities and contribute meaningfully to national development.
He added that patriotism and commitment to national progress were consistent with the values of the Islamic faith.