Buhari congratulates Muslims nationwide as Ramadan fast begins today

President Muhammadu Buhari has called on Nigerians to pray for the return of peace, love and prosperity throughout the country as Muslims start the 2015 Ramadan fast. In a congratulatory message released on his behalf by the Senior Special Assistant (Media and Publicity), Garba Shehu, President Buhari implored Muslims to seek maximum benefits from the Ramadan period "by being helpful to all manner of people, learning and following the true message of the religion as taught by the Holy Prophet."

The President in his message directed an appeal to the perpetrators of violence and destruction in the name of Islam all over the world to desist from tarnishing the name of the religion. "As we make collective efforts to bring to a permanent end the menace of the Boko Haram in the Lake Chad basin countries, let me use this auspicious occasion to appeal to our misguided brothers to drop their arms, embrace peace and seek a better understanding of Islam during this Holy period and beyond," Buhari said. 

The President prayed to Allah to bring peace and harmony to all parts of the country and the world at large. "I wish all our citizens a blessed Ramadan. Ramadan Kareem Mubarak," the statement concluded. 

Garba Shehu
Senior Special Assistant (Media & Publicity) State House Abuja.