As the month of Ramadan begins across the country today, President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigerian Muslims to seize the opportunity of the Holy Month to offer prayers for peace, unity, stability and rapid socio-economic development in the nation.
In his goodwill message to followers of the Islamic faith at the commencement of Ramadan, the president noted that the Holy Month is a most favourable period for such prayers since Muslims believe that God answers more prayers during Ramadan than at any other period.
The president said that while increasing their acts of worship, as enjoined during the month, Muslims should also rededicate themselves to projecting the Islamic virtues of brotherly love, peaceful co-existence, honesty, tolerance, piety, fairness, equity and justice for all in their dealings with others.
Assuring Muslims in the country of his solidarity with them as they uphold one of the pillars of their faith through the observance of Ramadan, Mr Jonathan pledged that his administration will continue to do all within its power to give all Nigerians a true sense of belonging in the country.
The president reaffirmed that all sections of the country will be fully carried along in the implementation of his agenda for national transformation, while developmental projects will be equitably distributed across all geo-political zones.
He urged all Nigerians, in the spirit of the Holy Month, to embrace peace and join hands with the government to build a more united, progressive and prosperous nation for the benefit of all.
Virtue of discipline
Ekiti State governor, Kayode Fayemi also advised Muslims to use the period to preach against racial and religious discrimination and all forms of violence.
Mr Fayemi urged Muslims to live exemplary lives, stressing that the greatest lessons from the annual Ramadan fasting include the need for discipline, respect for constituted authorities, tolerance, honesty, sincerity of purpose and peaceful co-existence.
“Islam is all about love, honesty and cleanliness, both of the person and the society,” he stated.
Rededicate yourself to Allah
Ogun State governor, Ibikunle Amosun called on Muslims to use the period of Ramadan to re-dedicate themselves to Almighty Allah and reflects on His injunctions in their dealings with fellow citizens and the government.
Mr Amosun said the fasting period teaches all Muslims the virtues of discipline, honesty and empathy in their relationship with fellow human beings.
“Therefore, it is important for all Muslims to display these virtues in their daily endeavours. Those who are fasting should present themselves to other citizens as models of good behaviour. That is the essence of Ramadan,” he said.
“The denials that Muslims will experience during the next one month should forever make us to be law abiding, honest, patient, maintain good relationship with fellow citizens and perform our civic responsibilities as good Nigerians.” The governor further advised religious leaders to use the period to preach unity and co-operation among citizens who belong to different religions so that peace can continue to reign in Ogun State, in particular, and Nigeria in general.