By Justina Auta
The Afemai Islamic Movement (AIM) has urged Nigerians to sustain the spirit of unity, good character and devotion imbibed during Ramadan for national development.
The President of AIM, Dr Ismaeel Danesi, made the call in Abuja during the group’s Eid-el-Fitr celebration marking the end of the Ramadan fast.
Danesi described Ramadan as a sacred period of worship, sacrifice and reflection, urging Muslims to uphold its values beyond the fasting season.
He said Eid-el-Fitr symbolises gratitude to Almighty Allah for the grace to complete the fast and an opportunity to celebrate with family, friends and neighbours.
According to him, the virtues of togetherness, discipline and compassion cultivated during Ramadan should be sustained throughout the year.
“Month of Ramadan is a special month where we fast and it’s expected that whosoever fasts for the sake of Almighty Allah, the sins of that person will be forgiven.
“We expect that having imbibed the culture of togetherness during the month of Ramadan, we have to exhibit it after the month of Ramadan and to be able to carry it along throughout the year,” he said.
He emphasised that societal change begins at the family level, urging parents to instil moral values and proper upbringing of their children.
He noted that the teachings of Islam promote peace, harmony and good character, which are essential for building a better society.
Reacting to the recent bomb blast in Maiduguri, Danesi condemned the act and stressed the need to address insecurity through proper upbringing.
He said children raised with sound values would grow into responsible leaders and contribute positively to society.
Danesi urged parents to teach the true principles of Islam as contained in the Qur’an and exemplified by Prophet Muhammad.
He said such efforts would discourage violence and other social vices, thereby promoting peace and stability.
Speaking on the group’s activities, Danesi said that AIM organises annual Eid gatherings that feature Qur’anic competitions, social interactions and communal meals.
He said that the event fostered unity among Afemai Muslims in Abuja and strengthened communal bonds.
Also speaking, a member of the group, Mrs Fatimah Oyarebu, expressed gratitude for witnessing the celebration, describing it as an opportunity to appreciate God’s mercy and renew commitment to faith.
Oyarebu noted that many who began the Ramadan fast were unable to complete it, underscoring the need for gratitude and reflection.
On forthcoming elections, she urged Nigerians to elect leaders based on competence, integrity and the overall interest of society.
She advised voters to shun selfish considerations and support candidates capable of delivering good governance and national development. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Funmilayo Adeyemi
