Muslim faithful have been admonished to embrace the virtues of piety, charity and moderation as enshrined in the Holy Qur’an and the teachings of the Prophet.

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum,

gave the admonition on Sunday during the Annual Ramadan Lecture at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), held in Ile-Ife.

Zulum, who was is the special guest of honour at the event, highlighted the values of Ramadan as essential tools for fostering a resilient, patriotic and charitable citizenry in Nigeria.

He called on Muslims to remain prayerful, patriotic, and patient throughout the holy month.

The Borno governor also admonished Muslims to promote religious tolerance, engage in philanthropic endeavours, and serve as exemplary ambassadors of Islam, fostering unity and understanding with other faith communities.

Guest lecturer at the event, Professor Badmus Olanrewaju Yusuf, in his lecture, titled: “Navigating Economic Difficulties in Nigeria through Reliance on Allah,”  urged Muslims to uphold the Islamic principles of Divine reliance, equitable resource distribution through Zakat and Sadaqah (obligatory and voluntary charity), and compassion for the less-privileged in society.

While cautioning against wasteful spending and immoral behaviour during the holy month of Ramadan,

Professor Yusuf advised the Muslim faithful to embody discipline and self-restraint.

Also, Governor Zulum donated the sum of ₦50 million to support charitable initiatives, fraternity, and communal harmony within the OAU Muslim Community on behalf of the people and government of Borno State.

Chairman of the occasion, Prof. Yusuf Olaolu Ali (SAN), commended Governor Zulum for his generosity and commitment to fostering unity across various communities in Nigeria.

Professor Ali, while commending  Governor Zulum’s philanthropic efforts, urged Nigerian Muslim leaders to support faith-based initiatives and charitable activities to promote godliness, civic responsibility and a culture of philanthropy.

On Governor Zulum’s company at the event were the Member representing Jere Constituency in the Borno State House of Assembly, Abba Kyari Abba Kolo; the Deputy Chief of Staff, Dr. Babagana Mustapha Mallumbe; the state Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar; Senior Adviser to the Governor on Culture and Regional Integration, Dr. Hassan Zanna Boguma, as well as Professor Bobboi Umar.