Date: 25 August, 2026
By Abraham Ovuba
ABAKAKIKI – Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has urged Muslims in the state to turn the celebration of Sallah into an opportunity to strengthen peace, unity, compassion and peaceful coexistence across the country.
Gov Nwifuru made the call in a Sallah message issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor, as Muslims across Ebonyi State, Nigeria and beyond celebrated the Islamic festival.
The governor said Sallah should go beyond festivities, describing the occasion as a spiritual reminder of sacrifice, humility, compassion, obedience and submission to the will of Almighty Allah.
He urged the Muslim faithful to draw lessons from the life and teachings of Prophet Mohammed, particularly the importance of sacrifice for Allah and the welfare of others.
Governor Nwifuru said the celebration should also be leveraged to promote national interest by encouraging forgiveness, brotherhood and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
He appealed to citizens to look beyond religious, ethnic and political differences, stressing the need to recognise their shared humanity and bond as one people.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building an Ebonyi State where every citizen, regardless of faith, ethnicity, social status or political affiliation, would enjoy equal dignity, security, opportunity and a sense of belonging.
According to him, the administration’s People’s Charter of Needs is anchored on translating governance into tangible improvements in the lives of citizens.
He warned that hatred, violence and division could undermine development, urging citizens to choose dialogue over confrontation, love over bitterness and unity over division.
The governor commended the Ebonyi Muslim community for their contributions to the state’s peace, progress and development, while praying for Allah’s acceptance of their sacrifices and enduring peace, prosperity and stability for Nigeria.
