Lagos State governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, has called on Muslims to offer special prayers for greater peace, unity and continuous progress of Nigeria, as they join their counterparts across the world to celebrate Eid- El- Maulud, which is the birth of Prophet Mohammed.
Governor Ambode made the call on Sunday in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Habib Aruna, while rejoicing with the Muslims on the occasion and enjoining them to follow the exemplary leadership of the Holy Prophet by promoting peaceful existence.
The governor, while imploring Nigerians to shun ethnic, political and religious differences and work towards building a safer and better Nigeria, said the celebration of the birth of the Prophet should renew the faith and bond of unity as one people and one nation irrespective of diversity.
“On the occasion of the commemoration of the birth of the holy Prophet, it is imperative to reflect on his teachings and uphold his legacies of unity, integrity, peaceful coexistence and love for one’s neighbour, which are indispensable in our quest for meaningful development and the profitable management of our diversity,” he said.
Governor Ambode also urged Muslims and Nigerians in general to internalize the virtues of honesty, selflessness, charity, tolerance, good neighbourliness, justice, equity and fairness which Mohammed (PBOH) preached, saying such would go a long way to engender national development.
“I want to seize this occasion to urge all Nigerians to commit themselves to making a greater effort to imbibe these qualities and values as they celebrate the Prophet’s birth.
“I wish all our Muslim brothers and sisters in Nigeria and Lagos in particular a happy Eid-el-Maulud,” he said.