Some Islamic scholars have urged Muslims across the country to intensify prayers for Nigeria’s peace, unity, and economic renewal.
They made the appeal during a special Jumaat prayer in Sokoto on Friday, held to mark the Islamic New Year.
A renowned scholar, Prof. Abubakar Yagawal, highlighted the importance of collective prayers for divine intervention to help the nation overcome its current challenges.
Yagawal, who is also the Commissioner for Policy, Research, Statistics, Information and Library Services (PRSILS) at the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), encouraged Nigerians to promote peaceful coexistence in all communities.
According to him, there is a need for people to embrace the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), which uphold peace, honesty, patience, generosity, humility, sincerity, love, and the fear of Allah.
He stressed that the Prophet’s mission brought divine guidance and enlightenment to humanity, adding that prayers remain essential to confronting the country’s economic challenges.
Similarly, Dr Atiku Balarabe-Gusau urged citizens to reflect on their conduct towards Allah and fellow humans by making corrections where necessary.
He called on Nigerians to emulate past leaders who nurtured positive values in society.
Balarabe-Gusau also appealed for prayers to address insecurity and promote love and sincerity among citizens.
Sheikh Yusuf Zuru commended the convener of the programme, Malam Kabiru Mu’azu-Jodi, while urging leaders to create platforms that foster brotherhood and peaceful coexistence across the country.
He noted that the birth of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) symbolised mercy, compassion, and wisdom for humanity.
Zuru also recalled the contributions of Tijjaniyya revivalist Sheikh Ibrahim Nyass, who simplified Qur’anic memorisation and promoted Qur’anic learning.
Dr Aminu Sufi stressed the need for Muslims to acquire both Islamic and secular education, encouraging young people, male and female, to pursue professional studies in order to contribute to national development.
Leading the prayer session, Sheikh Ibrahim Shehu-Dahiru Bauchi charged Muslims to dedicate more efforts to instilling good character in the younger generation and discouraging divisive tendencies.
He, alongside scholars from Nigeria, Mauritania, Senegal, and Niger Republic, prayed for Nigeria’s peace, security, and sustainable development.
The gathering concluded with Qur’anic recitations and poems in praise of Prophet Muhammad (SAW).