As the Ramadan fast begins today, Inuwa Yahaya, Chairman of the Northern States Governors Forum and Governor of Gombe State, has emphasized the importance of unity and urged the Federal Government to ensure sufficient security for the protection of lives and properties throughout the season.
In a goodwill message issued by the Director-General (Press Affairs) of the Government House, Gombe, Ismaila Misilli, Governor Inuwa Yahaya urged the Muslim Ummah and all citizens to utilize the sacred month of Ramadan for fervent prayers, seeking relief from prevailing economic hardships and praying for peace, development, and prosperity for Gombe State and Nigeria as a whole.
He emphasized the need for collective efforts to address the security and socio-economic challenges confronting the nation, acknowledging the commitment of President Bola Tinubu and fellow governors to tackle these issues.
Governor Yahaya assured citizens that these challenges will soon be overcome.
Expressing deep concern over the alarming increase in abductions of vulnerable citizens, particularly recent incidents involving students in Kaduna, internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Borno, and Almajiri pupils in Zamfara states, the Chairman of the Northern Governors Forum underscored the devastating impact of these abductions on the victims and their communities.
He called on security agencies to mobilize all necessary resources to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safe return of the abducted individuals.
Governor Yahaya urged citizens to remain vigilant, cooperate with security forces, and report any suspicious activities to prevent further incidents, emphasizing that a secure environment is vital for the nation’s overall development and prosperity.
Expressing optimism in the power of prayers, commitment, and patriotism, he believed that the nation will emerge stronger from its current challenges.
Governor Yahaya highlighted Ramadan as one of the five pillars of Islam, offering a valuable opportunity for spiritual renewal and devotion through supplication and worship.
Yahaya urged clerics to prioritize teachings on peaceful coexistence, unity, and piety during their Tafsir sessions and other religious teachings throughout the month-long fast and beyond.
He specifically advised the Muslim Ummah to embody the spirit and values of Ramadan and Islam in their daily lives by promoting peace, compassion, and obedience, while also urging affluent members of society to extend acts of generosity to those in need.
The governor encouraged the residents of the state to maintain their law-abiding nature and uphold the existing peaceful coexistence, reaffirming his government’s commitment to ensuring peace, security, and the welfare of the people.