As the Muslim faithful begin the holy month of Ramadan, a renowned cleric, Prophet Sam Olu Alo, has called on the Islamic adherents to pray for peace, adequate security, and economic prosperity in Nigeria.

Olu Alo who is the planter of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Adamimogo Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain Worldwide also congratulated Nigerian Muslims for witnessing the annual fast, charging them to use the period as an opportunity for self-reflection, prayer, and to deepen community spirit.

He explained that Nigerians will enjoy more dividends of democracy when there is peace and economic buoyancy in Nigeria, praying to God to help them finish strong with bountiful blessings.

While praying to Allah to strengthen the Muslim faithful to successfully carry out the spiritual exercise, the prophet urged them to pray for the peace and development of Ekiti, South West and Nigeria at large.

He equally noted that Ramadan fasting is part of the pillars of Islam by prophet Mohammed to pray; worship, and give alms to the needy in the society. Adding that the spiritual exercises are done in holiness, sincerity of mind and love not only to tackle challenges but to receive Allah’s blessings.

In a statement by his personal assistant, Deji Ogunbusuyi, the cleric noted the significance of this year’s Ramadan coinciding with the Christian Lent period.

“Fasting – during Ramadan or for other reasons – is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, the others being faith, prayer, charity and the pilgrimage to Mecca.

“I enjoin Muslim faithful to use this fasting period to pray for the Nigerian, State, our President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Biodun Oyebanji to succeed in his determination to take the state to the greater heights.

This he said holds profound significance and illustrates a shared commitment to spiritual devotion and self-discipline by the two faiths.

Prophet Alo stated that as both Christians and Muslims engage in fasting and prayer during the same period, it provides an opportunity for individuals from the two strongest faiths in Nigeria to empathize with one another and strengthen their interfaith connections.

According to him, “Ramadan is not merely about abstaining from food and drink from dawn until sunset but a time for spiritual growth, self-discipline, and empathy.

“It is an opportunity for Muslims to draw closer to God, strengthen their faith, and deepen their bonds with other members of the community,” he stated.

“The true essence of Ramadan lies in the values of sacrifice, humility, gratitude, compassion, and awareness of our duties to our Creator and humanity. As our Muslim brothers and sisters embark on this spiritual journey, may these virtues strengthen their faith and inspire them to be examples of peace, justice, and service to our country.

“The Ramadan Fast should instill empathy for the less fortunate, reminding us of the value of charity and kindness to others, regardless of their background or circumstances.

“As we begin Ramadan, I encourage our Muslim brothers and sisters to reflect on the values and ideals of this holy month. Let us strive to instill a spirit of forgiveness, tolerance, and unity in our communities. Rather than focusing on differences, let us work to strengthen the bonds that bind us.

“In the spirit of Ramadan, let us also remember to pray for Nigeria. May our nation be blessed with peace, prosperity, and unity. May we overcome our challenges and work together towards a brighter future for all.

“As we embark on this journey of spiritual renewal and self-improvement, let us pray that the blessings of Ramadan bring hope, healing, and transformation to our lives and our nation.”