As Muslims celebrate this year’s Hijrah, Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, has urged Nigerians to continuously pray for the peace and prosperity of the country.
The governor while felicitating Muslims in the state and across the country on the occasion of the Islamic New Year, Hijrah 1444 AH, which began on Saturday, wished Muslims in the state, Nigeria and across the world a New Year filled with blessings and benevolence of the Almighty Allah.
The governor equally admonished Muslims to, in the spirit of the New Year, pray for a smooth and refreshing season in our country.
“Hijrah (immigration to Madinah), no doubt, kindled the light of hope in the hearts of the early Muslims who set a shining example for all Muslims, in every generation to emulate. It symbolises a new beginning.
“So, it is my prayer that all Muslims in Oyo State and the country will experience positive improvements and progress as the Hijrah 1444 AH begins.”
Makinde congratulated the Muslim Ummah in the state on the opportunity to witness a new Islamic year, urging them not to relent in praying for the state and the country.
The governor noted that Hijrah began when the Holy Prophet Muhammad migrated from Mecca to Madinah, adding that Muslims must continue to demonstrate good neighbourliness, love and dedication to the state.
He enjoined them to work deliberately to ensure peaceful coexistence at all times, adding that the essence of Hijrah is that it is a process of transfer to a better situation, a search for an environment more favourable to the continuous and constructive effort.
“Let me also assure all that this administration will continue to fulfill its promises to uplift the state and move its people from poverty to prosperity, ’’ he said.
