Abuja: The Afemai Islamic Movement (AIM) has called on Nigerians to maintain the unity, good character, and devotion fostered during Ramadan for the benefit of national development. The President of AIM, Dr. Ismaeel Danesi, made this appeal in Abuja during the group’s Eid-el-Fitr celebration, which marks the conclusion of the Ramadan fast.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Danesi highlighted that Ramadan is a sacred time for worship, sacrifice, and reflection, encouraging Muslims to continue upholding its values beyond the fasting period. He emphasized that Eid-el-Fitr is a time of gratitude to Almighty Allah for the completion of the fast and an opportunity for celebration with family, friends, and neighbors.
Danesi urged that the virtues of togetherness, discipline, and compassion nurtured during Ramadan should be sustained throughout the year. He remarked, “Month of Ramadan is a special month where we fast and it’s expected that whosoever fasts for the sake of Almighty Allah, the sins of that person will be forgiven. We expect that having imbibed the culture of togetherness during the month of Ramadan, we have to exhibit it after the month of Ramadan and to be able to carry it along throughout the year.”
He stressed that societal change begins at the family level and called on parents to instill moral values and proper upbringing in their children. Danesi noted that the teachings of Islam promote peace, harmony, and good character, which are crucial for building a better society.
Reacting to the recent bomb blast in Maiduguri, Danesi condemned the act and highlighted the need to tackle insecurity through proper upbringing. He stated that children raised with sound values would grow into responsible leaders and contribute positively to society. Danesi encouraged parents to impart the true principles of Islam as contained in the Qur’an and exemplified by Prophet Muhammad, aiming to discourage violence and other social vices, thereby promoting peace and stability.
Discussing the group’s activities, Danesi mentioned that AIM organizes annual Eid gatherings featuring Qur’anic competitions, social interactions, and communal meals, which foster unity among Afemai Muslims in Abuja and strengthen communal bonds.
Additionally, Mrs. Fatimah Oyarebu, a member of the group, expressed gratitude for witnessing the celebration, seeing it as an opportunity to appreciate God’s mercy and renew commitment to faith. Oyarebu pointed out that many who began the Ramadan fast were unable to complete it, underscoring the need for gratitude and reflection. Regarding forthcoming elections, she urged Nigerians to elect leaders based on competence, integrity, and the overall interest of society.