By Racheal Ishaya/Okon Okon
Abuja – As the Id-el-Kabir draws closer, the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) has urged all Muslims to continue to be good ambassadors of Islam.
The Deputy Secretary-General of the NSCIA, Prof. Salisu Shehu, in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, also called on Muslims to continue to promote and embrace peace, justice and righteousness, which he said were the hallmarks Islam.
According to Shehu, the Council beseeches Allah to restore peace and stability to all the troubled parts of the country and the world.
He called on Muslims to continue to pray to Allah to grant President Muhammadu Buhari sound health and wisdom to be able to steer the affairs of the country.
“This year’s ‘Id is particularly significant.
“There will be three sermons (Khutbah) within the span of two days — ‘Arafat on Thursday, 9th of Dhul-Hiijah, 1438AH and the ‘Id and Jumu’ah on Friday, 10th Dhul-Hijjah, 1438AH.
“Indeed, these are great days every Muslim should reflect and use the rare opportunities and virtues they present to invoke the mercy of Allah and His blessings.
“Muslims who are not on pilgrimage are enjoined to fast on the day of ‘Arafat with the conviction that Allah will forgive our sins of the preceding and proceeding years and admit us to His Jannah.
“ As we do this, we ask Allah to accept our ‘ibadah, increase our Iman and grant us divine protection and endless bliss,’’ he said.
The NSCIA deputy secretary-general also urged the Muslim faithful to remember that ‘Idul Adha symbolises piety, which was an act of godliness, as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.
He called for perpetual sober reflection, submission to the will of Allah, and sincerity of purpose from all worshipers.
The Federal Government had already declared Friday , Sept. 1 and Monday, Sept. 4, as Public Holidays, to enable Muslims to celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir. (NAN)