Babagana Zulum, Governor of Borno State, has extended warm felicitations to the Muslim community in the state, across Nigeria, and globally on the commencement of the Ramadan fast.

Describing Ramadan as a period of spiritual rejuvenation, self-discipline, sacrifice, and compassion, Governor Zulum said fasting goes beyond abstaining from food and drink, serving to purify the heart, strengthen faith, and encourage kindness to the less privileged.

The Governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, stated that Zulum urged Muslims to use the holy month for deepened worship, supplication, and charitable giving. He added that Ramadan promotes unity by reinforcing the values of peace, tolerance, and mutual respect taught by Islam.

Zulum noted that the Ramadan period coincides with sustained peace in Borno and a bumper harvest from last year’s cropping season. On Tuesday, he launched the distribution of Ramadan palliatives to 300,000 households across all 27 local government areas, aimed at cushioning vulnerable residents from economic hardship. The gesture will also extend to Christians observing Lent, which coincides with the Ramadan fast.

Reflecting on the state’s post-insurgency recovery over the last 15 years, the Governor acknowledged the resilience and sacrifices of the people. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring security, rebuilding destroyed communities, resettling displaced families, and reviving livelihoods.

“Our government remains focused on consolidating security gains through collaboration with the Federal Government and security agencies. We are rebuilding schools, hospitals, roads, and markets, and supporting farmers, traders, and youth to restore economic activities in liberated communities,” Zulum said.

He emphasized that, while significant progress has been made in reconstruction and rehabilitation, collective prayers and unity remain crucial to sustaining peace and stability in Borno and Nigeria. He called on the Muslim Ummah to dedicate Ramadan to prayers for lasting peace, security, prosperity, and national cohesion, and encouraged citizens to support vulnerable families, widows, orphans, and those affected by the insurgency.

Zulum also felicitated with the Christian community on the commencement of Lent, stressing that the simultaneous observance of both religious periods underscores the need for unity, peaceful coexistence, and collective action.

He prayed that Almighty Allah accepts the fast, supplication, and good deeds, and grants Borno State and Nigeria sustainable peace and development.