The Federation of Muslim Women Association in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has called on the Federal Government to declare 1st Muharram as a day for national prayer for the country.
The National Amirah, Hajia Rafiah Idowu made the call in a statement to commemorate the new Hijrah Year (Muharram) 1446.
Muharram is the Muslim’s first lunar month.
The Association noted that as the country was going through the trying period, there is a serious need for both the leaders and the led to go back to Almighty Allah and seek for His intervention.
The statement particularly urged the government to ensure price control of food items with a view to addressing the problem of hunger ravaging the nation.
The statement also implored the government at all levels and security agencies to intensify more efforts in combating insecurity in the country.
While congratulating Muslim ummah on the commencement of new Islamic calendar, the statement urged Muslims to imbibe the lessons of Hijrah which include tolerance, perseverance, steadfastness and fear of Allah.
FOMWAN also urged Nigerians to use the Hijrah celebration to pray for divine guidance for the country’s leadership.
The Association stressed the need for the government especially Sokoto state government to honour and respect the Sultan of Sokoto as head of Muslims in the country in addition to being the traditional ruler.
FOMWAN appreciated the consistent support of the Sultan of Sokoto for women’s development and empowerment and activities of the Association among others.
FOMWAN commended the state governments that had declared 1st Muharram as work-free day including Kwara and urged other states to emulate them.
