Akpabio Greets Muslims Ahead of Eid-el-Maulud, Calls for Prayers for Peace and Unity in Nigeria
President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has extended his greetings to Muslims in Nigeria and across the world as they prepare to celebrate Eid-el-Maulud, the occasion commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad.
In a goodwill message signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio described the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad as a valuable example of good character and service to humanity.
He urged Muslims to use the occasion not only as a time of celebration but also as an opportunity to reflect on the values associated with the Prophet’s teachings, particularly love for humanity, tolerance, humility, forgiveness and service to others.
Akpabio Calls for Prayers for Nigeria
The Senate President specifically appealed to Muslim faithful to offer special prayers for peace, unity and progress in Nigeria as they mark the religious occasion.
According to him, Nigeria's strength lies partly in its diversity, with citizens belonging to different ethnic groups and religious backgrounds.
He therefore encouraged Nigerians to embrace one another with love, forgiveness and mutual respect, regardless of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.
Akpabio said the country needs the prayers of religious leaders and citizens, particularly at a time when Nigeria continues to face various challenges.
He urged Muslims and other Nigerians to use the period of Eid-el-Maulud to pray for the nation's leaders and for improvements in areas such as security, economic development and national unity.
Reflection on the Teachings of Prophet Muhammad
Akpabio said the significance of Eid-el-Maulud goes beyond the celebration itself, stressing the importance of reflecting on the values that Prophet Muhammad represented.
He highlighted love, patience, humility, forgiveness and service to humanity as qualities that could contribute to a more peaceful and united society when embraced by citizens.
The Senate President encouraged Muslims to allow these values to influence their relationships with other people and their contributions to the country.
He noted that mutual understanding and tolerance remain important in a country as diverse as Nigeria.
Senate Pledges Commitment to National Unity
Akpabio also stated that the 10th National Assembly, under his leadership, would continue to support legislation and policies aimed at protecting religious freedom and strengthening national unity.
He said the legislature would continue working toward measures capable of improving the lives of Nigerians while promoting an environment where citizens can freely practise their faith.
According to him, protecting religious freedom and promoting unity are important components of building a stronger and more peaceful Nigeria.
He further emphasised the need for Nigerians to see their differences in religion and ethnicity as part of the country's diversity rather than reasons for division.
A Message of Peace and Tolerance
The Senate President's message also focused on the role citizens can play in promoting peace.
He urged Nigerians to show greater understanding and respect toward one another and to avoid actions or attitudes that could deepen divisions within the country.
For Akpabio, the Eid-el-Maulud celebration provides an opportunity for Muslims to reflect on the values of compassion, forgiveness and peaceful coexistence while also praying for the country's continued progress.
He said the prayers of Nigerians are particularly important as the nation works to address its security, economic and social challenges.
Akpabio Greets Tinubu, Shettima and Muslim Faithful
In his concluding message, Akpabio extended his greetings to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima and Muslims across Nigeria.
He wished Muslims a peaceful and blessed Eid-el-Maulud celebration filled with happiness and blessings.
He also encouraged Nigerians to continue promoting love, tolerance, respect and unity as essential values for building a stronger nation.
As Muslims mark the occasion commemorating the birth of Prophet Muhammad, Akpabio's message places particular emphasis on the need for Nigerians to draw from values of peace, forgiveness, humility and service to humanity and apply them in their daily lives.
The Senate President wished Muslims across Nigeria and around the world a peaceful, joyful and blessed Eid-el-Maulud, while calling for continued prayers for peace, unity, security and progress in Nigeria.