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As Muslims commence the Ramadan fast, state governors and the United Nations have joined global leaders in urging messages of love, peace and self-sacrifice.
From centres of political authority across Nigeria to the UN, calls for restraint and spiritual reflection were widely echoed.
Governors conveyed goodwill messages to Muslims in their states, across the country and worldwide to mark the beginning of the holy month.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State said Ramadan goes beyond abstaining from food and drink, describing it as “a school of character and a sanctuary for the heart.”
He called for continued prayers for enduring peace and harmony in the state and emphasised the season’s values, asking citizens to show compassion, charity, unity, and mutual care.
Acknowledging Kaduna’s religious and cultural diversity, Sani stressed the need for unity and shared responsibility in building a prosperous society.
“Our administration remains steadfast in consolidating peace, revitalising our economy, and advancing sustainable prosperity for all,” he said.
In Edo State, Governor Monday Okpebholo encouraged Muslims observing Ramadan to use the period of fasting and prayer to seek divine intervention for the state and the nation.
He called on Nigerians of all faiths to pray earnestly for national unity, economic stability, improved security and enduring peace. In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, the governor urged citizens to commit Nigeria to God in prayer and supplication.
“Let us seek divine guidance to overcome our challenges and build a more united, prosperous, and peaceful country,” he said.
Similarly, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State extended his “warmest greetings” to Muslims, praying that the period of fasting and reflection would strengthen faith, peace and compassion among the people.
“We pray that this sacred period of fasting, reflection, and devotion draws you closer to Almighty God, fills your hearts with peace, and strengthens the bonds of love, tolerance, and compassion among us as a people,” he said.
“May your prayers be answered, your sacrifices accepted, and may this Ramadan usher in blessings, good health, and renewed hope into your homes.”
Babajide Sanwo-Olu also reflected on the spiritual lessons of the season, saying Ramadan teaches “us the significance of abstinence for the sake of seeking God’s grace, mercy and forgiveness.”
“Let us be good to one another. We should be tolerant and be of good behaviour to one another. Let us continue to offer prayers for continued peace, unity, and stability in Lagos and Nigeria at large,” he wrote.
The Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State described Ramadan as a time of “reflections & prayers; a reminder of the importance of tolerance.”
“I urge all Nigerians to show compassion, promote peace & unity. May this season bridge divides, bring hope to the vulnerable & ensure no one is left behind,” he said.
At the global level, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said Ramadan represents a period of deep reflection and a vision of hope and peace.
“Ramadan is a sacred period of reflection and prayer. It also represents a noble vision of hope and peace. In these divided times, let’s heed Ramadan’s enduring message to bridge divides, deliver help and hope to those who are suffering, and safeguard the rights and dignity of everyone. Ramadan Kareem,” Guterres posted on X.
