By Popoola Jamiu, Abeokuta
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has called on parents to instil sound moral and cultural values in their children, stressing that proper upbringing remains essential to building a better society.
The governor made the call during the 41st Annual Hijrah Celebration 1448AH organised by the National Council of Muslim Youth Organisations (NACOMYO) at the Pavilion, Alake Palace, Abeokuta. The event was themed, “Hijrah as a Role Model for Strategic Change.”
Represented by the Senator representing Ogun Central Senatorial District, Senator Shuaib Salisu, Governor Abiodun said parents must take deliberate steps to train their children in the right way, warning that poorly raised children could destroy the achievements and legacies of their parents.
He noted that the Hijrah celebration should serve as an opportunity for families to redirect erring children towards positive values, lamenting what he described as a growing trend of parental indulgence in children’s misconduct.
“We are in a period where some parents encourage their children to engage in vices. If children are involved in wrongdoing, parents should be held accountable because many are no longer taking full responsibility for their upbringing. I urge parents to go back home and call their children to order. Let them be grounded in their faith and understand the source of their parents’ livelihood,” he said.
The governor described Hijrah as more than the beginning of a new Islamic calendar year, saying it symbolises a movement from vice to virtue, triumph over adversity, and peaceful coexistence among people of different faiths.
He congratulated the Muslim faithful on witnessing the new Islamic year and urged them to continue upholding the values of peace, discipline and righteousness associated with Islam.
Governor Abiodun also assured residents that his administration would continue to be fair, just and equitable, as demonstrated over the past seven years, while soliciting continued prayers and support to enable him serve the state effectively.
In his goodwill message, the Head of Service, Mr. Olanrewaju Saka, described Hijrah as one of the most defining moments in Islamic history, noting that it represented not just a migration but a divinely guided transformation built on faith, sacrifice, resilience and visionary leadership.
He said the occasion should remind Muslims of Allah’s assurance and guidance during difficult times, adding that divine support remains constant even in moments of uncertainty.
According to him, the administration of Governor Abiodun recognises that sustainable development is anchored on quality human capital and has therefore continued to invest in capacity building, digital transformation, workforce development and institutional reforms aimed at building an efficient and responsive public service.
“As we reflect on the lessons of Hijrah, let us embrace unity, tolerance, discipline and selfless service to humanity. Let us also continue to pray for our leaders, our state and the nation for divine wisdom and guidance,” he said.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, and the Chairman of the occasion, Engr. Abdul-Hamid Omoowo, described Hijrah as a symbol of the transition from wrong deeds to righteous living. They urged Muslims to remain committed to doing what is right at all times.
Delivering the keynote lecture, the first Kuliya Ngeri of the Ilorin Emirate, Prof. Yusuf Ali, said Hijrah represented a deliberate transition from persecution and vulnerability to security, stability and growth.
He explained that through visionary leadership, strategic planning, effective resource management, teamwork and unwavering faith, Prophet Muhammad transformed a marginalised community into a thriving society. He urged leaders at all levels to emulate the Prophet’s example in governance and public service.
Earlier, the State Coordinator of NACOMYO, Alhaji Abdul-Bariu Lawal, said the country’s security and economic challenges require strategic solutions, adding that the principles of Hijrah provide a useful framework for addressing such problems.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of the Hijrah Personality of the Year 2026/1448AH Award to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, Mrs. Moriamo Oloko, as well as a colourful march-past by students from various schools across the state.