Barr. Barakat Odunuga-Bakare, the Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Housing, held her annual Ramadan lecture and prayer for the Nation in Surulere by the Council of Chiefs and Imams of Surulere. This marked the 11th year of the lecture, which served as a way to express gratitude to Almighty Allah for preserving them, and for this year is to also show solidarity with the President and Governor. The event was also an opportunity for Barr. Barakat to give back to the community.

Sheikh Barr. Ghazalli Adepoju served as the guest lecturer, the lecture focused on the topic of “Reward for Goodness” and explored the qualities of a trustworthy person who fears Allah.

During his lecture, Sheikh Barr. Ghazalli Adepoju emphasized the actions that Allah deems as qualifying factors:

1. Complete faith in Allah: This involves believing that both crises and blessings come from Allah.
2. Belief in the Day of Judgment: Recognizing the eventual accountability for one’s actions.
3. Belief in the existence of Malaika (angels): Acknowledging the presence of angelic beings.
4. Belief in the holy Qur’an and other sacred books: Accepting the divine revelations from various prophets.
5. Belief in the Prophets: Having faith in the messengers of Allah.
6. Generosity towards family, the needy, and the poor: Sharing wealth and resources for the sake of Allah, including those who ask for help and those who do not.
7. Observance of Solat (prayer): Recognizing the importance of regular prayer.
8. Fulfillment of Zakat: Giving the obligatory alms when one possesses the means.
9. Honoring promises: Keeping one’s word and fulfilling commitments.
10. Practicing patience during challenging times: Demonstrating resilience and steadfastness in the face of difficulties.

Sheikh Barr. Ghazalli Adepoju’s lecture emphasized the importance of these qualities and actions in leading a righteous and fulfilling life. The audience was encouraged to embody these principles in their daily lives, seeking the reward and blessings promised by Allah.

During her speech, Barr. Barakat expressed her heartfelt appreciation to the people of Surulere for their presence and support. She specifically thanked distinguished guests, including Senator Wasiu Eshinlokun-Sanni and Hon. Sulaimon Bamidele, the Chairman of Surulere LG, as well as other stakeholders of the Local Government.

She also extended her gratitude to the leaders and women of Surulere, recognizing their important roles in the community. She emphasized the significance of keeping all leaders in prayer and seeking Almighty Allah’s continued guidance for them.

Barr. Barakat offered prayers for the preservation of everyone present and expressed hope for the opportunity to witness many more Ramadan celebrations in the future. She encouraged the good people of Surulere to continue supporting their leaders and to pray for their success and guidance.