Gov. AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara has urged Nigerians to use what Hijirah symbolises to unite the country and reject everything that can stall its growth and development.
The governor said this on Monday in Ilorin in his remarks at the Hijrah 1443 celebrations.
“It is the dawn of another Hijrah year. We have now entered 1443 AH. I congratulate the entire Muslim ummah on this significant day.
“Hijrah means a whole lot to Muslims and the entire world. It marks the rise of a civilisation that is not comparable to any before or after it in human history.
“To date, that epoch remains a subject of study for historians and seekers of truth from around the world.
“My message to everyone is simple: let us borrow a leaf from what Hijrah symbolises to unite our country and reject everything that stalls its growth.
“Wherever we stand on party politics, let us unite on common issues of national unity, security, peace and development. Let us reject forces of doom,” he said.
AbdulRazaq quoted an article published on Sept. 7, 2009 to explain the term al-Hijrah to British audience.
“According to BBC, by breaking the link with his own tribe, the Prophet demonstrated that tribal and family loyalties were insignificant compared to the bonds of Islam.
”Esteemed brothers and sisters in Islam, this quote partly captures the essence of Hijrah.
“Allah has blessed us with the Prophet who united all tongues and races around the values of Islamic monotheism and universal brotherhood of man, coloured or white.
“The movement of the prophet and his lieutenants from Taif and then to Madinna in trickles and the growth and development of Islam in phases should teach us that no nation attains greatness in a jiffy.
“It takes hard work, discipline, sacrifice and unity of purpose by everyone to develop our country,” he added.
AbdulRazaq commended the organisers of the rally, stressing “I agree that occasions like this have historical significance and should be commemorated. The sentiments around it are of immense values for generations.
“Our government is, therefore, not unaware of suggestions that a day be set aside to enable our Muslim brethren, especially public servants, to fully take part in the commemoration of new Hijrah year like their counterparts in a few other states.
“We are making consultations on it.
“I wish everyone Happy Hijra 1443. I bid us to endeavour to internalise its lessons for our spiritual and socioeconomic growth.
“I pray Allah to continue to shower His blessings upon the Holy Prophet Muhammad and his household, and grant forgiveness to the Muhaajirun and the Ansaar,” AbdulRazaq added.
