President Muhammadu Buhari has called on Nigerians to pray for the return of peace, love and prosperity throughout the country as Muslims start the 2015 Ramadan.

This followed the declaration of moon-sighting by the president-general, Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) and Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, yesterday night.

In a congratulatory message released on Buhari’s behalf by his senior special assistant, Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, the president implored Muslims to seek maximum benefits from the Ramadan period “by being helpful to all manner of people, learning and following the true message of the religion as taught by the Holy Prophet.”

The president in his message appealed to the perpetrators of violence and destruction in the name of Islam all over the world to desist from tarnishing the name of the religion.

“As we make collective efforts to bring to a permanent end the menace of Boko Haram in the Lake Chad basin countries, let me use this auspicious occasion to appeal to our misguided brothers to drop their arms, embrace peace and seek a better understanding of Islam during this Holy period and beyond,” Buhari said.

Meanwhile, while addressing newsmen in his palace, the Sultan stated that Thursday, June 18, marks the beginning of Ramadan 1436 A.H, and urged Muslims to use the 29 or 30-day period to offer prayers for peace and development of the country.

“I have the greatest pleasure to announce to you that today, June 17, marked the end of Shaaban and, therefore, Thursday June 18 marks the beginning of Ramadan 1436,” he said.

“Reliable reports from Muslim leaders across the country show that the new moon of Ramadan has been sighted in various parts of the country. I urge you all to use the opportunity to offer prayers for peace and development of this country.”

Credit: leadership