Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has urged Muslims in the state to use the period of Eid-el-Mawlid to pray for Nigeria to overcome its current challenges.
Makinde made this declaration while felicitating the Muslim Ummah in the state and across Nigeria on the occasion of Eid-el-Mawlid 2024.
The governor, in a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media, Sulaimon Olanrewaju, congratulated all Muslims on witnessing the Mawlid.
In the statement, Makinde called on Muslims to pray for Oyo State, Nigeria, and the leadership at both levels.
Makinde noted that Mawlid, celebrated on the 12th day of the third month of the Islamic calendar to mark the birthday of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), is an important festival for all Muslims.
He added that this period should be used as an opportunity to seek the face of Allah regarding the state of affairs in the country.
Makinde said, “The Mawlid has always been an important festival for the Muslim Ummah; a great opportunity to glorify Allah and the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).
“While felicitating my Muslim brothers and sisters, I encourage them to use this opportunity to pray more for our state and our nation.
“As an administration, we have enjoyed the support and prayers of the Muslim Ummah over the last five years. But just as efforts cannot be too much, prayers cannot be too much. So, please pray more for things to turn around for the better in our nation.”