The Okere of Sakiland, Oba Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III, has congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and across the world on the commencement of the Islamic New Year, Hijrah 1448AH, urging the faithful to embrace the values of faith, unity, compassion and righteousness.
In a goodwill message issued and made available to the public space on Monday to mark the beginning of the new Islamic calendar year, the monarch described the occasion as a significant period for spiritual reflection and renewed commitment to the principles exemplified by Prophet Muhammad (SAW) during his historic migration from Makkah to Madinah.
According to the traditional ruler, the Hijrah remains a timeless symbol of faith, resilience, sacrifice, patience and unwavering obedience to the will of Allah, lessons which he said remain relevant in addressing contemporary societal challenges.
He called on members of the Muslim Ummah to uphold the virtues of integrity, tolerance, compassion and unity, noting that such values are essential for promoting peaceful coexistence and sustainable national development.
He further urged Nigerians to use the occasion to pray fervently for the peace, progress and stability of the country, especially in the face of prevailing security and socio-economic challenges.
Expressing concern over the insecurity affecting parts of the nation, the royal father stressed the importance of collective responsibility, cooperation among citizens and reliance on divine guidance in overcoming the challenges confronting the country.
The monarch also appealed to Nigerians, regardless of religious or ethnic backgrounds, to continue fostering mutual respect, understanding and harmonious coexistence for the collective good of the nation.
He encouraged Muslims to make the new Hijri year a period of spiritual renewal, charitable service and meaningful contributions to the growth and development of their communities.
He offered prayers for Allah’s abundant mercy upon Nigeria, seeking enduring peace, security, unity and prosperity for the nation.
The royal father also wished Muslims a blessed, rewarding and spiritually fulfilling Hijrah 1448AH, expressing hope that the new year would usher in greater opportunities, divine favour and national renewal.