The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, has congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the commencement of the Islamic New Year, 1st Muharram, 1448 A.H., urging believers to embrace piety, peaceful coexistence and service to humanity.
The monarch said the migration of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) from Makkah to Madinah remains a powerful lesson in justice, brotherhood and community building, values he described as essential for achieving lasting peace in today’s world.
Sulu-Gambari made the call in a goodwill message issued on Tuesday through his spokesman, Abdulazeez Arowona, as Muslims across the world marked the beginning of a new Islamic calendar year.
Describing the Hijrah as a timeless symbol of sacrifice, perseverance and faith in Allah’s divine plan, the Emir urged Muslims to draw inspiration from its enduring lessons.
“Hijrah teaches us that hard times do not last forever. As we enter 1448 A.H., I urge Muslims to renew their commitment to piety, peaceful coexistence, and service to humanity,” he said.
The Emir also appealed to Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for peace, unity and economic prosperity across the country.
He called on religious and political leaders to refrain from divisive statements capable of creating tension in society, stressing the need for messages that promote national unity and strengthen social cohesion.
Sulu-Gambari further commended Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for what he described as the administration’s support for religious harmony in the state.
The monarch also advised young people to emulate the discipline, courage and commitment demonstrated by the early Muslims, while warning against violence, drug abuse and other social vices.
In the message, the Emir offered special prayers for the late Prof. Yusuf Lanre Badmos, acknowledging his contributions to the National Hijrah Organisation, Kwara State Chapter.
He noted that the late scholar’s dedication, scholarship and commitment played a significant role in advancing the annual Hijrah commemoration and promoting Islamic values during his lifetime.
The Emir prayed that Almighty Allah forgives the deceased’s shortcomings, accepts his good deeds and grants him Al-Jannatul Firdaus.
“May the New Year inspire us to be our brother’s keeper. I pray Almighty Allah (SWT) grants us good health, abundant blessings, and accepts our acts of worship,” the Emir added.
He expressed hope that the new Islamic year would bring renewed commitment to faith, stronger bonds of brotherhood and greater progress for the nation.
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