Senate President, Bukola Saraki, has sent a very inspiring message to Nigerians and the world, at the wake of the commencement of Ramadan.
Recall, that the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, had on Friday, declared Saturday, May 27, as 1st Ramadan, 1438 AH.
This signifies the start of the annual long-month fast by Muslims.
Abubakar announced the sighting of the new moon in Sokoto, in a broadcast.
He said that the new moon was sighted in various States of the country, including Kebbi, Lagos, Adamawa, Bauchi, Delta, Cross River, and Benue.
Saraki, while delivering his message in an exclusive video, stated: “It is a great pleasure and honour to once again felicitate with millions of Nigerian muslims, and of course Muslims across the world, on the start of the glorious month of Ramadan.Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam.
“As a kid back in the days, Ramadan was synonimous to fasting only. So, I quite naturally looked forward to Iftar and Sahur at home.
“But as I grew up and learnt more, I have come to the realisation that Ramadan is far much more! Ramadan is a unique symbol of the values that Muslims and people of all faiths share – that is charity, cooperation, compassion and self-restraint.
“Ramadan is also an occasion for Muslims to strengthen family and community ties and share God’s gifts with those in need.
“This is why I invite us to reflect on the conditions of our brothers and sisters in IDP camps across the country who, for no fault of their own, are unable to fast in the comfort of their homes like you and I. This heart-breaking conditions therefore remind us all of our common humanity and compel us into positive actions that could bring a permanent end to the situations.
“I like to also use this occasion to pray for the quick recovery of our dear President, President Muhammadu Buhari. My thoughts and prayers are always with him just as I wish for him a complete and restful recovery.
“My wife, Toyin and I, and our kids, are delighted to extend our warmest wishes to our Muslim brothers and sisters in Nigeria and across the world on the start of this holy month.
“May the glory and blessings of this month shine upon us now and always.
“Ramadan Mubarak.”
