State governors across the country, in commemoration of the Eid-el-Maulud celebration, have appealed to citizens to imbibe the virtues of love, sacrifice, tolerance and compassion that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is known for.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) also extended warm felicitations to the Muslim faithful in Nigeria, and called for national reflection and urgent action from the country’s leadership to address mounting economic and social challenges.
In a press statement issued signed by its president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the apex Christian body urged political leaders to embrace justice, ease the burdens on citizens and foster policies that strengthen national unity.
CAN highlighted that the celebration offered a moment for all Nigerians to reflect on the core values exemplified by the Prophet, which it said were universal and essential for nation-building.
“Eid-el-Maulud offers all Nigerians a moment of reflection on the values of humility, compassion, justice and devotion to God which the Prophet exemplified. These values transcend religious boundaries and point us towards building a society anchored on peace, fairness and mutual respect,” it stated.
In his message, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State felicitated Muslims in the state and beyond. He urged them to uphold and embody the holy prophet’s timeless virtues of peace, kindness, humility and selflessness, especially in their daily interactions.
“May this celebration bring peace, happiness, and blessings to all. As we reflect on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) on tolerance, sacrifice, and peaceful coexistence, let us strive to emulate his virtues and work towards a brighter future for our state and nation,” he said.
He also advised the Muslim Ummah to pray for enduring peace, love and unity in the collective pursuit of building a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State described the celebration as a significant occasion and an opportunity for reflection on the values the prophet embodied.
He said Prophet Muhammad in his teachings preached unity, kindness and respect for all, regardless of faith or background, thus reminding the Muslim community to embrace the principles of tolerance, understanding, and harmony for a better society. He said his government was committed to promoting an inclusive environment for all residents to co-exist peacefully, no matter their faith.
Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru reminded Muslims that Eid el-Maulud is a time for reflection, renewal of faith, and reaffirmation of our commitment to the principles of love, peace, and compassion that Prophet Muhammad exemplified.
He urged everyone to observe the festivities with humility, charity and brotherhood, following the noble traditions of the faith.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq urged the Muslim community to remain committed to the path of guidance, shun bitter partisanships, unite for a greater cause, and shine the light of Islam to the rest of the world.
“As humans with varying experiences and perspectives, it is perfectly in order if we don’t agree on all things every time; yet, that should not make us enemies, disrespect ourselves, or deter us from prioritising things that matter to our collective humanity.
“We should not allow our spectrum of opinions on whatever topic, legitimate as they may be, to tear us apart to the detriment of the message of Prophet Muhammad,” the governor said in a statement yesterday.
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State urged Muslims to let the lessons of the prophet’s life guide their daily conduct, promoting harmony and peaceful co-existence in our communities.
“This sacred occasion reminds us of the Prophet’s enduring example, his humility, his courage in the face of adversity, compassion for the less privileged, and commitment to justice, truth, and peace. These virtues are not only timeless but also deeply needed in our nation and our state today,” Mbah said.
Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo congratulated Muslims in the state and across Nigeria on the occasion, urging prayers and actions that promote peace, unity and prosperity in the country.
Governor Ododo noted that the birth of Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) reminds humanity of timeless virtues, humility, patience, and compassion which remain the foundation of a just and peaceful society.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, urged residents to embrace the teachings of peace, compassion, and unity as they celebrate.
Wike in a message to residents of the FCT, emphasised that the occasion, which marks the birth of the Prophet Muhammad, is an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of community and mutual respect among the FCT’s diverse population.
He specifically commended residents for their unwavering commitment to peace and harmony, crediting this cooperation as a key driver of the administration’s achievements since assuming office.
The National Orientation Agency (NOA) extended warm greetings to the Muslim faithful across the country while urging all Nigerians to uphold the rule of law and work together in unity for the peace and development of the nation.
In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Abuja, the Director General of NOA, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, encouraged Muslims to embrace forgiveness and reflect on the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), which he described as a guide for peaceful and upright living.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, congratulated Muslims, saying the prophet exemplified holiness, forthrightness, discipline and service to Allah (SWT) and humanity. He stressed that his teachings were meant to guide mankind towards peace, love and charity to one another.
The speaker said that despite the socioeconomic challenges faced by Nigeria, the country had the potential to prosper if the leaders and the followers abide by the God-given principles as outlined by the prophet.
