As another new moon heralds the start of the Holy month of Ramadan, it is that time of the year when we congratulate one another for the privilege of life to witness this holy month so ordained by no one else but the Creator of mankind and The Sovereign Sustainer of the universe. I wish to extend on behalf of the Board, management and staff of NAHCON my best wishes to Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and around the world.
2. No doubt, this month is an opportunity to focus on reflection, spiritual growth, forgiveness, patience, resilience and compassion for those less fortunate. This is especially so in this trying time when Covid-19 pandemic has demoralized the world, with a lockdown that is hindering people from performing their legitimate duties to earn livelihood. And in this month of reflection, we should not forget our common obligation to uphold the directives of the Presidential Committee on Covid-19 on social distancing, keeping to recommended routines on hygiene in order to stave off the spread of the virus.
3.As a Muslim,I can not think of a better idea than to call on the Muslim Ummah to use this occasion to pray conscientiously to the Almighty Allah to protect us from this calamity and terminate the pandemic, for the world to return to its normal activities.
4.Similarly, the sublime month of Ramadan is a period of retreat, retreat from worldly treats to spiritual sobriety; a retreat from selfishness to sharing and caring. Ramadan is a time of showing appreciation to the Almighty and to fellow humans who must have impacted in one’s life, one way or the other. Although we do this every other day, however, the special occasion inspires us to do more.
5. I once again express hearty congratulations to Muslim Ummah for witnessing another awe-inspiring month of Ramadan. May we be among those that will reap all the blessings therein. Please do remember to abide by health directives from our respective governments in containing the further spread of COVID-19. Remember, respect to constituted authorities is a key principle of Al-Islam.
