Gov. Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers says his administration is felicitating with Muslim faithful in the state and across Nigeria on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitri celebration coming up on Friday.
Fubara made the remark in a goodwill message issued to journalists by his Chief Press Secretary Mr Onwuka Nzeshi, in Port Harcourt, on Thursday and called for unity and mutual respect among all faiths.
The Sultanate Council of Sokoto had officially declared Friday as the first day of Shawwal 1447AH, marking the celebration of Eid-el-Fitr across Nigeria.
The governor noted the Federal Government declared Thursday and Friday as public holidays to mark the celebration and prayed that the celebration would bring joy, peace and harmony to all Nigerians, irrespective of creed, tribe or tongue.
“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.
“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.” the governor said.
Fubara, who wished them, ‘’Happy Eid-el-Fitri,’’ noted that in the Islamic calendar, Eid el-Fitri marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a period devoted to fasting, prayers and almsgiving by Muslim faithful.