Following the commencement of Ramadan on Monday, the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Yahaya, has urged the Muslim Ummah and the entire citizenry to utilise this sacred month for fervent prayers, to seek relief amid present economic hardships, and pray for peace, development, and prosperity of states and Nigeria at large.
This was contained in a goodwill message, signed by his Director-General Press Affairs Ismaila Misilli, where he called for collective efforts in finding new solutions to the security and socio-economic challenges facing the nation.
While acknowledging the commitment of President Bola Tinubu and the governors to address the current difficulties. He assured citizens that these challenges will soon be defeated.
Yahaya used this occasion to express, deep concern saying “over the alarming increase in abductions of vulnerable citizens in some parts of the country,” particularly making reference to the recent incidents involving students in Kaduna, internally displaced persons in Borno, and Almajiri pupils in Zamfara states.
He decried the impact of these abductions on the affected individuals and communities, adding “the need for security agencies to deploy all necessary resources to bring those responsible to justice and to ensure the safe return of the abducted victims.”
He called on citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with security forces, stressing that “report any suspicious activities that could aid in preventing further incidents,” emphasizing that a secure environment is essential for the overall development and prosperity of the nation.
Expressing optimism in the power of prayers, commitment, and patriotism, he said, “the nation will emerge stronger from its current challenges.Ramadan, as one of the five pillars of Islam, provides a golden opportunity for spiritual rejuvenation and devotion through supplication and worship.”
He urged clerics to emphasise peaceful co-existence, unity and piety, “during their Tafsir sessions and other Ta’alimat throughout the month-long fast and beyond. The Muslim Ummah should embody the spirit and ideals of Ramadan and Islam in their lives by promoting peace, kindness, and obedience. The affluent ones in society should extend acts of generosity to those in need. The people of the state should continue to be law-abiding and safeguard the prevailing peaceful co-existence. This administration will continue to ensure peace, security, and the well-being of the people,” Yahaya added.
