Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has felicitated with Muslim faithful across Ebonyi State, Nigeria and beyond as they celebrate Sallah, describing the occasion as a solemn reminder of faith, obedience, sacrifice and trust in Almighty Allah.
Governor Nwifuru, in a goodwill message, urged Muslims to view the celebration not only as a festival but also as a period for deep reflection on the virtues of sacrifice, humility, compassion, obedience and total submission to the will of Allah.
The Governor noted that the lessons from the life of Prophet Mohammed demonstrate that true faith is reflected not only through words but also through the willingness to make sacrifices for Allah and for the benefit of humanity.
He called on Muslim faithful and all Nigerians to use the occasion to renew their commitment to peace, forgiveness, brotherhood and peaceful coexistence, stressing the need to look beyond religious, ethnic and political differences.
“Let us continue to look beyond our religious, ethnic and political differences and recognise the divine bond that makes us one people under God,” Governor Nwifuru stated.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building an Ebonyi State where every citizen, regardless of faith, ethnicity, social status or political affiliation, enjoys equal dignity, security, opportunities and a sense of belonging.
He said the administration’s People’s Charter of Needs remains anchored on the conviction that governance must translate into tangible improvements in the lives of the people.
Governor Nwifuru also urged citizens to extend love and support to the poor, vulnerable, widows, orphans and other less privileged members of society, noting that the true joy of celebration comes from sharing with those in need.
He further appealed to Ebonyians to continue supporting peace and security in the state, emphasising that sustainable development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of hatred, violence and division.
“We must continue to choose dialogue over confrontation, love over bitterness, unity over division and development over destruction,” he added.
The Governor commended the Ebonyi Muslim community for their contributions to the peace, progress and development of the state, describing their faith, resilience and patriotism as valuable assets to the collective growth of Ebonyi.
He prayed that Almighty Allah accepts the sacrifices of the faithful, answers their prayers, strengthens their families and grants Nigeria enduring peace, prosperity and stability.
Governor Nwifuru also wished Muslims and all Nigerians renewed hope, abundance, healing and greater unity as they celebrate the Sallah season.