By George Ozalla
President of the Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, has felicitated the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and across the world on the occasion of Eid-el-Maulud, the celebration of the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), urging the faithful to use the occasion to pray for peace, unity and progress in Nigeria.
Akpabio, in a congratulatory message issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, described the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad as a timeless example of compassion, tolerance, humility and service to humanity.
He urged Muslim faithful to reflect on the virtues demonstrated by the Holy Prophet and apply them in their daily lives, particularly at a time when Nigeria needs greater understanding, peaceful coexistence and a renewed commitment to national unity.
“As we commemorate this sacred day, I urge our Muslim brothers and sisters to reflect on the virtues of the Prophet and to offer special prayers for peace, unity and progress in our dear country, Nigeria,” Akpabio said.
The Senate President said the diversity of Nigeria should remain a source of strength rather than division, calling on citizens to embrace love, forgiveness and mutual respect irrespective of their religious or ethnic backgrounds.
According to him, the teachings of Prophet Muhammad provide important lessons on how individuals and communities can live together peacefully through compassion, tolerance and respect for one another.
Akpabio also called on religious leaders and faithful across the country to dedicate the occasion to prayers for Nigeria’s leaders, improved security, economic prosperity and the preservation of national unity.
“In these times, our nation needs the prayers of all religious leaders and faithful. Let us use this period to pray for our leaders, for security, economic prosperity, and for the unity that binds us together as one people under God,” he said.
The Senate President stressed the importance of collective prayers and responsible citizenship in confronting the challenges facing the country, while encouraging Nigerians to continue to work together in the interest of peace and national development.
He said the celebration should not only be observed as a religious occasion but should also provide an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the values of peaceful coexistence, compassion, service and responsibility to humanity.
Akpabio reaffirmed the commitment of the 10th Senate under his leadership to promoting legislation and policies that protect religious freedom, strengthen national cohesion and improve the welfare of Nigerians.
He said the National Assembly would continue to support efforts aimed at building a more peaceful, secure and prosperous Nigeria where citizens can live and worship freely.
The Senate President also extended his felicitations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima on the occasion, while wishing the Muslim community a peaceful and joyous Eid-el-Maulud celebration.
He prayed that the celebration would bring peace, blessings and renewed hope to Muslim families, the nation and the world at large.
