Eid-el-Fitr: Ramadan Spirit Can Enhance Nigeria’s Devt Process, Says Okowa

Omon-Julius Onabu in Asaba

As Muslims celebrate the Eid-el-Fitri festival, Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has felicitated with the Muslim community in Delta State, Nigeria and the world over, noting that adherents can enrich the country’s development by imbibing the spirit of the season.

In a message through his Chief Press Secretary (CPS), Mr. Charles Aniagwu, the governor asserted that Muslim faithful and Nigerians in general can “contribute to the development of the nation” by extending “the spiritual benefits of Ramadan, which are love, peace and justice to their daily living.”

Okowa, while enjoining Muslims and adherents of other religions to practice tolerance by respecting other citizens’ faiths and beliefs, sought for conscientious prayer for peace, unity and progress in Nigeria in all ramifications.

“On behalf of my family, the government and people of Delta State, I extend our warmest wishes to Muslims celebrating Eid-el-Fitr in Delta State, Nigeria and around the world. I congratulate all of our countrymen and women who have successfully undertaken the month-long Ramadan fast.

“As we celebrate Eid-el-Fitri, it is my hope and prayer that Ramadan’s spiritual lessons and the Holy Prophet’s teachings of piety, love, justice, fairness, equity, peaceful co-existence with others, tolerance, honesty and dedication to duty will remain with us all for the benefit and greater glory of our dear nation.

“May the lessons and blessings of the Holy Month also permeate into us all and positively influence our attitudes toward our fellow countrymen and women, irrespective of religion or place of origin; and, promote greater commitment to the peace, unity and stability of the nation”, the governor noted in his message.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to the creation and sustenance of enabling environment for peaceful co-existence and development, suing for cooperation and support of all and sundry.

“It is my hope that today brings joy to all of your homes, both here in Delta State, Nigeria and around the world”, Okowa said.