(Abuja)
As Muslim ummah around the world begin Ramadan fast on Friday, they have been urged to see the opportunity provided by the Holy month to focus on reflection, spiritual growth, forgiveness, patience, resilience and compassion for those less fortunate in society.
Alhaji Zikrullah Kunle Hassan,Chairman/CEO,National Hajji Commission of Nigeria(NAHCON), gave the advice in Abuja on Friday in his best wish message to the Muslim community.
He said:”As another new moon heralds the start of the Holy month of Ramadan, it is that time of the year when we congratulate one another and for the privilege of life to witness this holy month so ordained by no one else but the Creator of mankind and The Sovereign Sustainer of the universe.
‘This is especially so in this trying time when Covid-19 pandemic has demoralised the world, with a lockdown that is hindering people from performing their legitimate duties to earn livelihood.
“In this month of reflection, we should not forget our common obligation, to uphold the directives of the Presidential Committee on Covid-19 on social distancing, keeping to recommended routines on hygiene in order to stave off the spread of the virus.”
Hassan also advised the Muslims to use the occasion to pray,conscientiously, to the Almighty Allah to protect ”us from this calamity and terminate the pandemic, for the world to return to its normal activities.”
According to the HAHCO boss, the sublime month of Ramadan is a period of retreat from worldly treats to spiritual sobriety; a retreat from selfishness to sharing and caring.
He noted that Ramadan was a time of showing appreciation to the Almighty and to fellow humans who must have impacted in one’s life, one way or the other, adding that “although we do this every other day, however, the special occasion inspires us to do more.”
Hassan, who congratulated Muslim Ummah for witnessing another awe-inspiring month of Ramadan, prayed to almighty Allah to enable each and every Muslim be among those that would reap all the blessings therein.”
“Please do remember to abide by health directives from our respective governments in containing the further spread of COVID-19.
“Remember, respect to constituted authorities is a key principle of Al-Islam, “he further enjoined the Muslims in the country.
