Jonathan calls for peace at Ramadan

President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigerian muslims to use the occasion of the annual month-long fast which began today to offer special prayers for peace, stability and progress in the country.

In a message signed on his behalf by Dr. Reuben Abati, his spokesperson on Friday, the President also felicitated with all Muslims in Nigeria as they join the global Islamic community to begin this year’s Ramadan.

While noting that the Ramadan teaches Muslims to practice piety,self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice, tolerance, justice, fairness and empathy for the less fortunate in society, the President called on all Nigerian adherents of the Islamic faith to reflect on these edifying lessons as they fast and make them a greater part of their daily lives to promote peaceful co-existence and greater unity amongst the diverse groups in Nigeria.

“Against the background of recent security challenges in parts of thecountry, President Jonathan assured the Islamic faithful in the affected areas that every possible effort will be made to ensure that they observe the Ramadan rites of spiritual reflection, supplication,good deeds, charity and worship without hindrance.”

The President prayed that God Almighty will grant the prayers of Nigerians during Ramadan and reward the entire nation with multiple blessings as well as greater peace, security, political stability, unity and faster socio-economic development”, he added.