Buhari, Saraki, others call for peace

Muslims all over the world are celebrating the birth of the Prophet Muhammed (SAW) and Nigerian president, Mohammadu Buhari has a message for the people.

In a statement by the president's special adviser, on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, Buhari urged urged Muslims to use the opportunity of his birthday to reflect on the teachings of the Prophet, who lived a life of piety, prayer and service to God and humanity.

Buhari also urged the adherents of the Islamic faith “to rededicate themselves to upholding the injunctions of the Holy Quran in their personal life and in their relationships with others."

Senate President, Bukola Saraki also encouraged the people of Nigeria to just like the birth of the Holy Prophet in Mecca ushered in a new dawn for humanity, Nigerians should view the occasion of this year’s Maulud Nabiyyi as an opportunity for a new beginning for the country.

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He reminds Nigerians that the country is doing much better when it comes to securing lives and properties compared to last year, but they should not cease praying to Allah for mercy and protection.

In his own message, the President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, noted that this year’s Christmas celebration was significant as it almost coincided with the December 24, being the birthday of Prophet Muhammed.

“We have every cause to celebrate and thank the Almighty God for the opportunity of life and the privilege of survival. At this time last year, Nigeria was under a lot of tension with the national conscience being tormented by the apocalyptic prediction of 2015 being the end of our corporate existence.

“Now that the year is ending and we remain united, it is as if God Himself wants us to learn through the near coincidence of the births of our revered Prophets, Jesus and Muhammad.

“As you traditionally celebrate the birth of Jesus on December 25, the Muslims mark the birthday of Prophet Muhammad on December 24, this year being the 12th day of

“The message inherent in this near coincidence appears to be unity and mutual understanding. Therefore, the season of our double celebrations is an opportunity for us Nigerians especially to learn more about our two religious personages and rededicate ourselves to their true teachings.”

Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar in his Sallah message urged Muslims to emulate Prophet Muhammad’s shining virtues of compassion, tolerance and commitment to peace.

Governor Akinwumi Ambode also reminded Muslims to follow the exemplary leadership of the Holy Prophet by promoting peaceful co-existence among the various segments of the society.