NUJ Borno Felicitates Muslims, Christians as Ramadan and Lent Begin; Urges Prayers for Peace

By Abubakar Mala Gajibo 

The Borno State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has congratulated Muslim and Christian faithful in the state as the holy seasons of Ramadan and Lent commence, calling for intensified prayers for peace, security, and development.

In a statement signed by its Secretary, Chiroma Ali Ibrahim, the Council, led by Comrade Abdulkareem Haruna, extended warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah in Borno State and across Nigeria on the start of Ramadan 1447 AH. The NUJ described the sacred month as a period of deep reflection, spiritual purification, sacrifice, and charity, urging adherents to uphold values of piety, patience, self-restraint, and compassion for the less privileged.

The Council appealed to worshippers to use the holy month to pray for lasting peace and security across communities, divine guidance for leaders particularly Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum and sustained progress in the state’s reconstruction, rehabilitation, and resettlement programmes.

Similarly, the NUJ Borno Council joined the Christian community in marking Ash Wednesday, which signals the beginning of the Lenten season. It noted that the period of forty days of fasting, abstinence, and prayer serves as a reminder of human mortality and the need for reconciliation with God. Christians were urged to use the season to intercede for national healing and communal harmony.

The Council also charged media practitioners to uphold professionalism and ethical standards throughout the holy seasons, emphasizing the need for accurate and balanced reporting that promotes religious tolerance and mutual respect.

It prayed that Almighty Allah accepts the acts of worship and supplications of the faithful and that the seasons of sacrifice bring enduring peace and progress to Borno State and Nigeria.