Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike has distributed about 10,000 bags of rice to Muslims in the Gwagwalada area council in the spirit of Ramadan.
Wike, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Chidi Amadi, during the distribution said Ramadan is a very unique time and season in the lives of Muslims, as it is a period that has deep religious implications.
According to the minister, since the season is marked by fasting, prayer, and almsgiving, he considered it important to focus on the aspect of the Ramadan season that involves almsgiving.
“I want to urge our religious leaders and associations, that as these items are made available to you, please ensure they are well distributed.
“It is a time when we need to identify with the needy in our society, the less privileged, those who truly need some form of assistance. Ten thousand bags of rice will definitely go a long way to reach out to many during this season.
“As we distribute these items today, we urge you to try as much as possible to identify our brothers, sisters, and young ones amongst you who truly are in need and ensure that they participate in this gift that has been provided on behalf of the FCT administration,” he said.
Wike also used this opportunity to call on all other bodies, corporate entities, and non-governmental organisations to engage during this season by reaching out to religious organisations, finding where they are, and ensuring they identify with them.
The Chief Imam of the FCT Minister’s Residence, Imam Lawal Mustapha, during the distribution, said that the minister has demonstrated a kind gesture by distributing the bags of rice to them as Nigerians and residents of Abuja.
“In our religion, our God has given us the order that kindness deserves kindness. Obviously, in our view, our response is to include the Minister in our deep prayers and express our respect for the good he has done for us. We are very, very happy.
“This is one of the things that leaders should do wherever they are, to show leniency, kindness, and understanding toward their subjects by distributing necessities in society.
“He has done this, and we are so happy, and we are registering our distant prayers for him. May God provide him with protection, and may God help him and grant him success in all his endeavors, wherever he may find himself. We are so happy and truly exuberant,” he said.
Also, the Principal of the School for the Deaf, AbdulRazzaq Surajo, who expressed gratitude to the minister for the kind gesture, said that through such kindness during Ramadan, people will be very happy even as they express their concerns about rising costs.
“The Minister is turning things around in Abuja and touching lives. God will be with him, granting him good health, long life, and prosperity. This government will continue to provide a sense of direction to move the FCT and Nigeria to greater heights.
“Special school, we are very happy with you, sir. Thank you very much. We hope to have a wonderful celebration of this Salah filled with happiness,” he said.
