TheCable

President Bola Tinubu has asked Muslims in the country to use the period of Ramadan fasting to pray for peace and stability in Nigeria.

Tinubu spoke on Tuesday at the opening of the annual Ramadan tafsir (explanation of the Holy Qur’an) held at the State House mosque, Abuja.

He said the fasting period teaches sober reflection, love and a sense of sacrifice on the part of Muslims and should be a guide to neighbourliness.

”We thank Almighty Allah for sparing us to see another holy month of Ramadan. We thank Allah for sparing us through the elections and giving us the opportunity to be Nigerians,” Tinubu said.

”Yes, things are tough, but Allah has ordained us to make sacrifices, to discipline ourselves, help others, and be kind to ourselves.

”May Almighty God, that gave us this opportunity, strengthen our resolve; help us change our country, and extend our love to our neighbours.

”We face challenges of kidnapping, banditry, and others. May Allah show mercy on all of us, the dead, and accept our good deeds.

”May Almighty Allah give us strength and a good life to see the month of Ramadan through and to continue in good faith to worship him. I advise all of us to continue to pray for our country.”

The president told the Islamic clerics that God has given them the wisdom, knowledge, and heart to teach others, emphasising the importance of teaching forgiveness, patience, and endurance to the faithful, as well as sharing their blessings with others.

”It is in our hearts to make sacrifices and share whatever little we have with our brothers and sisters. Be kind and humble enough. The sacrifice that this period teaches us is enough,” he added.

”May Almighty Allah grant us the privilege and the strength; not the strength of hunger but the strength of character and attitude to love our country and make Nigeria great. As-Salaam-Alaikum.”

Abdulwahid Suleiman, chief imam of the State House mosque, asked Nigerians to continue to pray for the leaders in their efforts at solving challenges facing the country.

“Allah has made you the leader of Nigeria today, may he give you the guidance, wisdom and foresight to steer the affairs of the citizens,” he said.

Suleiman assured the president of the continous support of the Muslim community to his administration, adding that it is only God that gives power to whomever He wants.