By Adeyinka Adeniran
Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo state has congratulated Muslim faithful in the state, Nigeria and around the world on witnessing the commencement of the Islamic New Year, Hijrah 1447 AH.
The governor, in a congratulatory message made available to newsmen on Friday, charged the Muslim Ummah to continue doing the good work, noting that they would surely be rewarded.
He said that as the Hijrah commemorates the migration of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) from Makkah to Madinah, Muslims must use the symbolic festival to intercede for Oyo State, Nigeria and the leadership.
Calling on the Muslim faithful to internalise the lessons of the festival, Governor Makinde stressed that religious tolerance, harmony and good neighbourliness, which have been the hallmarks of Oyo State, should be sustained.
The governor lauded the Muslim Ummah in the state for the support they have given to his administration since its commencement in 2019, while also charging them to continue to support the government.
According to the governor, the next 23 months are quite important to Oyo State and its residents, as the government would focus on finishing strong and leaving worthy legacies, hence the support of the people would be quite critical.
He said: “I celebrate with our Muslim brothers and sisters as they celebrate Hijrah 1447 AH, which marks the beginning of the new Islamic Year.
“I urge them to keep doing the good works that Allah SWT commanded, assured that they will be amply rewarded.
“I encourage them to use this occasion as another opportunity to pray for our state, Nigeria and all the leaders. When the leadership is guided by God, they will be able to lead effectively.
“Let me also use this opportunity to commend the Muslim Ummah in Oyo State for the support they have been giving to our government since its inception in 2019, while also encouraging them not to relent in supporting their government.
“The next 23 months are quite important to us as a government, because we want to finish strong by completing legacy projects and keeping our covenant with the people.
“This is why we launched the Legacy Compact to measure our performance delivery in different sectors and to also come up with key legacy projects in each sector and ensure their completion before we leave office.
“To achieve all these, the people’s support is paramount. So, I call on residents of Oyo State to keep faith with us, as we continue to serve their best interests.
“Happy Hijrah and may Allah SWT bless you all, as you begin the New Year.”
