Nigerians have been enjoined to use this fasting period to foster empathy, to strengthen community ties, and promote nation-building by caring for neighbors and contributing to the common good of the country.
Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat made this plea recently at the Special Firdaus Prayer for the Late, Oba, Mufutau Hamzat and Ramadan Lecture, organized by the United Muslims Council of Nigeria, Mushin Division, held at Yahya Abatan, Ogba, Lagos.
Reflecting on Muslims observing Ramadan and Christians observing Lent, the Deputy Governor stated that both religions must live up to the expectations of what they profess.
“We all profess to be Muslims. We all profess to be Christians. Let’s live up to it. So our religion, whether you’re a Muslim, you’re a Christian, teaches us to be good neighbors, to take care of ourselves, take care of our community, take care of the environment,” he said.
Dr. Hamzat added that both religions teach peace, love, empathy, godliness, and good deeds to everyone, irrespective of their religious beliefs, ethnicity, or tribe.
He noted that the Ramadan period is not just for fasting or personal devotion, but an opportunity to strengthen community relationships and promote social welfare, adding that constant welfare will build a better community and a prosperous nation.
According to him, “For us as Muslims, the month of Ramadan is special. The essence is to enhance our creation and to worship Almighty God. So that’s the essence to link you more to your God, to deal with humanity better, to have empathy, to be able to live and deal with people, and you know, if you live well with people, if you take care of your neighbor, if you take care of your people, then the nation will be better. The community will be better built.”
He cited that Prophet Muhammad admonished Muslims to live in peace and unity with their neighbors, stressing that the teachings of the Holy Prophet, which include caring for one’s neighbors and the community, will further enhance a progressive community and a well-developed nation that everyone desires.
