Kashim Shettima, Nigeria’s vice president, and Babagana Zulum, the governor of Borno State, joined thousands of Muslim faithful to observe Eid-el-Fitr prayers at Ramat Square, Maiduguri. The two-unit prayer was conducted peacefully at the capital’s primary prayer ground and various locations across the state.
Proceedings took place under heightened security, marking the formal conclusion of the month-long Ramadan fast. The atmosphere remained disciplined as citizens gathered to celebrate the religious milestone amidst ongoing regional recovery efforts.
National unity and security commitments
In a Sallah message delivered shortly after the sermon by the Imam Eidaini of Borno, Shettima Mamman Saleh, the Vice President advocated for national unity and peaceful coexistence. Addressing the congregation, Senator Shettima reaffirmed the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of all citizens.
He further emphasised that the administration remains dedicated to tackling insurgency head-on, promising a strategic and relentless approach to restoring total peace across the country’s embattled regions.
Read also: Tinubu joins Muslims for Eid-el- Fitr at Dodan Barracks
Spiritual rejuvenation and social welfare
The Imam Eidaini admonished worshippers to internalise the lessons of the holy month. He encouraged the faithful to observe Zakat al-Fitr (almsgiving to the poor) and recommended the voluntary six-day fast in the month of Shawwal to attain further spiritual rewards.
Governor Babagana Zulum echoed these sentiments, calling on the people of Borno to leverage their spiritual growth toward the state’s reconstruction. He urged a collective effort to build a secure, peaceful, and prosperous Borno State in the post-insurgency era.
Resilience amidst recovery
The Governor lauded the courage and resilience of the populace, noting their commitment to initiatives designed to deepen peace-building. He acknowledged the need to mend the societal fabric, which has been fragmented by years of Boko Haram activity, praising the people’s resolve to move forward.
The prayer was attended by a high-profile delegation, including the Shehu of Borno, HRH Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, and Borno State Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur. Other notable figures included the APC Deputy National Chairman (North), Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, and the Minister of State for Regional Development, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan SAN.
High-Level representation
The gathering featured significant representation from the legislative and executive arms of government. Members of the House of Representatives, the Borno State House of Assembly, and former deputy governors were in attendance.
They were joined by the Secretary to the State Government, various Commissioners, and senior APC stalwarts. The presence of such a diverse political and traditional leadership underscored the unified front required for the region’s continued stability and development.
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