President Bola Tinubu has encouraged Muslims across Nigeria to utilize the sacred month of Ramadan as a time to cultivate peace, patience, sacrifice, and service to humanity—core tenets of Islam. Speaking on Monday at the Qur’an Tafseer marking the commencement of Ramadan 2025, held at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, emphasized that Ramadan is more than just abstaining from food and drink. He described it as a spiritual journey that fosters deep reflection, self-purification, and adherence to true Islamic values. Emphasizing Compassion and Nation-Building “This holy month calls for not only personal devotion but also collective kindness and social responsibility,” Tinubu stated. He commended religious leaders for their unwavering commitment to guiding the moral and spiritual development of society, acknowledging their invaluable role in shaping the ethical foundation of the nation. “As we engage in fasting and self-sacrifice, let us do so with goodwill and a sense of unity,” he urged. “We must not only provide for the less privileged but also encourage those with resources to uplift others. Charity should be accompanied by genuine acts of kindness, and our prayers for peace must be supported by a commitment to justice.” A Call for National Unity and Prayers President Tinubu reaffirmed that Nigeria stands at a pivotal moment and called on all citizens to embrace unity and reject divisive elements. He highlighted that nation-building is a collective duty and urged Nigerians to pray fervently for the country’s peace, stability, and progress. “We must work together to strengthen our bond as a people and resist forces that seek to create division,” he emphasized. “Above all, let us continually pray for our leaders. May Almighty Allah bless them with wisdom, strength, and foresight to steer Nigeria toward unity and prosperity.” He also prayed for divine protection over Nigeria’s territorial integrity and urged citizens to embody the virtues of peace and goodwill. Support for the Needy In his remarks, the Chief Imam of the State House Mosque, Sheikh Abdulwahid Abubakar, appealed to President Tinubu to enhance support for vulnerable groups, including orphans, widows, and those facing economic hardship. He also prayed for the success of Tinubu’s administration and for peace to be restored in regions experiencing security challenges. Notable Attendees Among the distinguished attendees were the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje; the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Sen. Abubakar Bagudu; and Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice-President), Sen. Ibrahim Hadeija, among others. Read more on Ramadan’s significance READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Channel
Sheikh Sholagberu Advocates for Unity and Harmony Among Islamic Scholars Abuja, Nigeria – The Grand Sheikh of Ilorin Emirate, Imam Sheikh Dr. Abdul Kadir Al Salman Sholagberu, has emphasized the importance of unity among Islamic scholars and preachers. He urged religious leaders to set aside doctrinal disputes and work together to promote shared Islamic values. Speaking during his inaugural sermon as one of the Chief Imams of the National Mosque in Abuja, Sheikh Sholagberu highlighted that religious discourse should be conducted with wisdom, tolerance, and respect rather than rivalry and division. The Growing Concern Over Disputes Among Scholars Sheikh Sholagberu expressed concern over the increasing conflicts among scholars, particularly over non-essential religious matters. He warned that such disputes lead to unnecessary divisions within the Muslim community and weaken the faith’s unity. He further condemned the misuse of religious platforms, where debates have turned into public accusations instead of serving as a means to guide the Ummah. The cleric also criticized how some religious leaders use social media to attack one another over differences in Islamic jurisprudence and practices. He cautioned that such actions only serve to divide the Muslim faithful rather than foster brotherhood. Call for Tolerance and Brotherhood Echoing Sheikh Sholagberu’s concerns, the Malami Ubandoma of Ilorin Emirate, who was also present at the event, encouraged scholars to follow the footsteps of early Islamic scholars. Despite having different interpretations, historical scholars maintained unity and mutual respect. As the Islamic community prepares for Ramadan, Sheikh Sholagberu called on Muslims to purify their hearts, set aside grievances, and embrace the spirit of brotherhood. He emphasized that the strength of the Muslim Ummah lies in unity and mutual respect. “It is disheartening to see scholars engaging in public disputes over non-fundamental matters of faith,” he stated. “Instead of guiding the Ummah, some scholars have turned religious discussions into platforms for accusations, which weakens the community.” Encouraging Scholars to Learn from History Sheikh Sholagberu urged scholars to practice forgiveness, patience, and tolerance, drawing inspiration from the great Islamic scholars of the past. He reiterated that differences in interpretation should not lead to hostility but rather serve as an opportunity for deeper understanding and learning. “Islamic scholars of old had differing views, but they never let these differences create division. We must adopt their approach. Our strength lies in unity.” Conclusion Sheikh Sholagberu’s message serves as a reminder that unity, respect, and brotherhood should take precedence over differences in doctrine. His call for harmony among Islamic scholars and preachers is particularly relevant in today’s world, where division can easily be amplified through digital platforms. For further reading on the importance of unity in Islam, visit Islamic Studies Institute. Islamic Studies Institute READ ALSO: Follow the LMSINT MEDIA channel on WhatsApp: Join Our WhatsApp Group Hear: Chat on WhatsApp Join our Telegram Chanel.
