President Muhammadu Buhari and the Senate President, Ahmad Lawan, have joined world leaders in welcoming the month of Ramadan, the month of fasting and intense devotion for Muslims.
The messages were delivered in separate messages.
In a message to Nigerians and Muslims all over the world, President Buhari said the period offerred a unique opportunity to ”feel the hunger experienced by the poor so as to feel what it is like to be deprived and marginalised.”
“Muslims,” the president emphasised “should seek greater personal discipline, which is necessary for the realization of a great nation.”
He advised Muslim elite against food waste and extravagant spending while others face hunger and destitution, urging that they should care for their neighbours, the poor and the marginalised.
He also called for prayers for peace in the country and beyond, and for healing and harmony throughout the world.
He wished all Muslims a successful completion of the 30-day fasting period.
In a message he personally signed, Lawan described Ramadan as the month when Muslims across the world observe one of the five pillars of their faith, share with their neighbours and show love to all people around them.
“It is a period of spiritual reflection, abstinence, sacrifice and supplications to the Almighty Allah.
“The holy month of Ramadan thus provides the faithful the opportunity to commune with Allah, and live as His Prophets enjoin us to do as we seek His blessings and mercies.
“The essence of the period is even more significant for us as we seek solutions and divine guidance out of the challenges that we currently face in our dear nation.
“The Nigerian government is doing everything possible to ameliorate the situation and also realises that much more has to be done.”
The Senate President said the National Assembly would not relent in its efforts at promoting good governance for the security, peace and progress of Nigeria.
“For our Muslim compatriots, let us use the opportunity of the Ramadan to pray for Nigeria, knowing that Allah answers the prayers of the faithful,” he said.
