Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has extended warm greetings to Muslim faithful in the state and across Nigeria ahead of the Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
In a goodwill message released to journalists in Port Harcourt on Thursday through his chief press secretary, Mr. Onwuka Nzeshi, the governor called for greater unity, peace, and mutual respect among adherents of all religions.
Fubara noted that the Sultanate Council of Sokoto had announced Friday as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, marking the Eid-el-Fitr celebration nationwide, while the federal government had declared Thursday and Friday as public holidays for the festive period.
He prayed that the celebration would usher in joy, peace, and harmony across the country, irrespective of religious or ethnic differences.
"On behalf of the government and people of Rivers State, I wish all Muslim faithful a joyous Eid-el-Fitri. May the occasion strengthen our bonds of peace, unity and mutual respect among all faiths," the governor said.
"Let us continue to cherish our diversity and promote harmony, tolerance and understanding. May our shared values of compassion, forgiveness and unity guide us in our daily life."
Fubara further urged Nigerians to embrace the lessons of Ramadan, noting that Eid-el-Fitr signifies the end of the holy month dedicated to fasting, prayers, and almsgiving by Muslim faithful.
