The Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, has called on religious organisations to protect children and youths from the potential negative impacts of science and technology especially as Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to transform the world.

Mr Hamzat made the call at the annual Ramadan lecture of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Lagos State Council, on Sunday at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos state.

The event had the theme: “Understanding the Inner Dimensions of Islamic Brotherhood” .

The deputy governor emphasised that in today’s world, science and technology were moving at a rapid pace, and as society progressed, change must be preached often .

He urged parents and religious people to protect the youths from the negative impacts of AI just as everyone would protect themselves from the potential dangers of a car.

He noted that if the right values were not instilled in them, they might lose the essence of humanity which included compassion, love, unity, and peace.

He stressed that parental guidance was crucial and essential for children’s development, as it was very significant in shaping their young minds.

“It is in our hands as parents to train our children because science and technology may take the essence of humanity away from them.

“We must be involved in the life of our children, we must nurture them because they need guidance, just like all of us need guidance,” he said.

The deputy governor commended Ansar-Ud-Deen Society for being around for the past 100 years.

Mr Hamzat praised the society‘s commitment to education and community development.

“Not many organisations in Nigeria can boast of 100 years of existence, so we must appreciate them for sustaining the society”.

Babatunde Fashola (SAN), a former minister of works and housing, encouraged Nigerians to be patient and calm.

Mr Fashola expressed optimism that the government’s efforts would lead to a brighter future for the nation.

“I believe that our country will be great if we can be patient and calm, joy will come.

“Let us be patient. Let us live in harmony and we will all enjoy the greatness of our country, Nigeria,” he said.

In his Lecture, titled “Understanding the Inner Dimension of Islam Brotherhood” the national missioner, Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria and Oversees, Sheikh Abdur’Rahman Ahmad stressed the importance of brotherhood in Islam,

Mr Ahmad explained that Islam teaches Muslims to be compassionate, to demonstrate love, kindness, and mercy towards one another, regardless of their religion or background.

“Allah teaches Muslims to love and live in peace with each other.

“Allah teaches us to be compassionate, be merciful, and be caring to the people around us.

“There will not be a religion if our relationship with Allah is perfect and our relationship with our brother in Islam or otherwise is hostile or toxic”.

He charged the people to emulate the good deeds of other religious bodies, who gave priority to the welfare and well-being of their members,

According to him, Islam is not the property of any race but is a compassionate religion of love.

Earlier in his welcome address, AbdurRahman Salaudeen, Lagos Council chairman, Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, said they remained committed to making non-Muslims see the beauty of Islam.

Mr Salaudeen said that the society had revitalised high values that Islam taught.

He added that the society had always embarked on a lot of life changing programmes and activities that make Muslims and non-Muslims saw Islam as a religion of peace, love, and harmony.

Mr Salaudeen enjoined Muslims to be their brothers’ keepers in the face of the economic hardship that currently pervades the country.

“Extend the hand of succor and assistance to the needy, the poor, and the less privileged around you to ease their affairs.

“May Almighty Allah accept all our good deeds as an act of Ibadah,” he said.

 (NAN)