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Eid-El-Maulud: Buhari, Wike, Others Charge Muslims On Muhammad’s Virtues
President Muhammadu Buhari, Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, his Deputy, Dr Ipalibo Harry Banigo, and senator representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District and the Kaduna State APC governorship candidate, Senator Uba Sani, have urged Muslims to “practice the noble and shining virtues of the Prophet Muhammad”, saying the “best way to honour him is to follow his good examples”.
Buhari, who said this in his message to Muslims on the occasion of Maulud to celebrate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad, said, “The prophet became famous for his life of humility, justice, and fairness”.
According to Buhari, “the Prophet attracted people to Islam through personal examples of honesty, trustworthiness, justice, patience, and tolerance.”
He stated that Prophet Muhammad demonstrated “a remarkable life of patience under provocation and honoured treaties with non-Muslims for peaceful coexistence.
“Honesty was one of Muhammad’s greatest virtues and every good Muslim should follow his examples,” Buhari was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu.
The President further called on Nigerians to join the government in ongoing efforts to eradicate insecurity and corruption, to increase their respect for women, children, and the less able, and to show love and understanding for one another.
He also urged politicians, in this season of elections, to avoid using expletives and cuss words, and to avoid the unwanted culture of demeaning and humiliating opponents.
Buhari, again, promised that he would ensure free, fair, and transparent elections in 2023.
In his message, the Rivers State Governor, Chief Nyesom Wike, called on the Muslims community in the state to use the celebration of the Eid-el-Maulud, birth of Holy Prophet Mohammed, to advance the cause of religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.
In the statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Kelvin Ebiri, the governor, said that his administration would continue to promote religious tolerance amongst all residents of the state.
Wike advised the Muslim faithful to imbibe the virtues of love, peace, communal living and honesty which are qualities of Holy Prophet Mohammed in their daily lives.
While wishing the Muslim community a wonderful Eid-el-Maulud celebration, the governor urged them to always pray for the government and people of the state.
Similarly, Rivers State Deputy Governor, Dr. Ipalibo Harry Banigo, felicitated with Muslim faithful as they celebrate the 2022 Eid el-Maulud.
In a statement in Government House, Port Harcourt, yesterday, Banigo urged Muslims to celebrate the occasion with decorum and emulate the life style of the Prophet.
The deputy governor said the State Chief Executive, Chief Nyesom Wike, has provided the enabling environment for all residents to have a sense of belonging irrespective of their religious belief, adding that the policies and programmes of his administration remains beneficial to all.
She urged them to pick up their permanent voter’s card and ensure they vote massively for candidates of the PDP in the upcoming general election.
Also, Senator UbaSani representing Kaduna Central Senatorial District and the Kaduna State APC governorship candidate has felicitated with Muslims on the Eid-el-Maulud, and called for prayers for sustained improvement in the security situation.
In a statement made available to journalists, the Kaduna governorship candidate said, “I wish my esteemed Muslim brothers and sisters in Nigeria and across the globe a joyous and spiritually uplifting Eid-el-Maulud celebrations. We thank Almighty Allah for making us see this glorious day, a day set aside to celebrate the birth of our dear Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon Him).
“As we mark this day, let us remember, cherish and imbibe the virtues Prophet Muhammad (SAW) exemplified. The Prophet exemplified the virtues of patience, love, tolerance and perseverance. He devoted his life to building understanding among people. While pursuing his faith, He had respect for other people’s faiths. His approach and disposition enhanced the search for peace and security.
“Our dear country is still grappling with insecurity. Enemies of the state and other criminal elements have been carrying out acts of destabilization and sabotage against our country and its people. Because of their activities, movement around the country has been difficult and there is the possibility of increased food insecurity. But I am happy to note that our security agencies have risen to the challenge. They have taken the battle to the criminals and have chalked up success after success. The terrorists are in retreat.
“I, therefore, urge our people to devote this Eid-el-Maulud celebration to prayers for the sustenance of the successes that our security forces have been recording against these murderous elements. May the Almighty Allah give our leaders and security agencies the wisdom, strength and courage to prosecute this battle to its end. May peace and security return to our country. May the 2023 elections be a watershed in the annals of our country.
“I pray fervently for peace and security in our dear Kaduna State. Our security agencies have substantially degraded the criminal elements in our state. But more work needs to be done! We must continue to support and pray for our security forces so that they can totally uproot these enemies of the people.
“As the 2023 governorship elections draw closer, I have continued to receive endorsements from critical stakeholders. My campaigns have gained traction. We are confident that with the people and Almighty Allah on our side, victory is assured. Our mission is clear: to take Kaduna State to higher heights. If given the mandate by the people, we shall effectively and efficiently execute our contract with the people. Join us on this journey that will unlock new opportunities for our dear state and people. Happy Eid-el-Maulud,” he said.
The Rivers State Government has commended the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion) for its outstanding contributions to the development of Rivers State, particularly in the areas of peacebuilding, education, healthcare, and moral development.
Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, stated that the Church has remained a dependable partner in promoting peace, unity, justice, moral discipline, and social harmony across society.
The Governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma, made the remarks during the thanksgiving service marking the 30th Anniversary and First Session of the 11th Synod of the Diocese of Niger Delta North, held at St. Peter’s Anglican Church on Sunday.
Governor Fubara described the Synod’s theme, “Kingdom Advancement: The Priority of Every Believer,” as timely and relevant, considering the prevailing realities in society.
According to him, the Church continues to play a vital role in shaping societal values and inspiring hope among citizens.
“The Church remains a vital partner in promoting peace, unity, justice, and moral discipline. Its role in shaping values and inspiring hope cannot be overemphasized,” he stated.
The Governor further acknowledged the Anglican Communion’s contributions in education, healthcare delivery, youth empowerment, humanitarian services, and spiritual guidance across communities in Rivers State.
“The Rivers State Government appreciates the invaluable contributions of the Anglican Communion in education, healthcare, youth development, humanitarian support, and spiritual guidance. Your impact across communities in Rivers State continues to strengthen families and promote peaceful coexistence among our people,” he added.
Governor Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a peaceful, united, and prosperous Rivers State where all citizens can thrive irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or social background.
He also urged the Synod to continue praying for sustainable development and progress in Rivers State and Nigeria at large.
Earlier in his sermon, the Guest Minister, Joseph Olushola, spoke on the topic, “Kingdom Investment and Internal Rewards,” urging Christians to remain faithful stewards of God’s blessings and committed to advancing God’s kingdom through service and generosity.
The cleric emphasized that believers are custodians of the virtues and resources entrusted to them by God, stressing that divine rewards are based on faithfulness and impact rather than material possessions.
The Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, in partnership with the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), has reaffirmed support for efforts to expand gas distribution infrastructure in Rivers State as part of initiatives aimed at improving access to affordable, cleaner and more reliable energy for industries across the South-South region.
The commitment was highlighted during the SNG–MAN Business Forum held in Port Harcourt, where stakeholders from the industrial and public sectors examined the role of natural gas in driving industrialisation, boosting local production and strengthening energy security.
Speaking at the forum on behalf of the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Gas Limited, the company’s Head of Gas Distribution, Mr. Chukwuka Amos Ejesi, described natural gas as a critical component of Nigeria’s energy mix and a key driver of sustainable industrial growth.
According to him, Nigeria’s gas development agenda has reached a stage where policy direction must be matched with practical implementation capable of addressing the energy challenges confronting manufacturers.
He noted that pipeline gas offers industries a cleaner, more dependable and cost-effective energy alternative capable of supporting uninterrupted operations, reducing emissions and improving production efficiency.
“Gas is the backbone of manufacturing, and we are encouraged by the growing recognition among stakeholders of the need for cleaner and more reliable energy solutions,” he said.
Ejesi stressed the need for sustained collaboration among energy providers, government institutions and industrial stakeholders to maximise the country’s gas resources for economic development.
He added that improved gas infrastructure would strengthen manufacturing value chains, enhance productivity and promote more competitive industrial operations across Rivers State and the wider South-South region.
Participants at the forum also emphasised the importance of expanding energy infrastructure as a pathway to unlocking industrial capacity, reducing operating costs and promoting sustainable industrial development.
Representing Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the Director-General of the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency, Dr. Chamberlain Peterside, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to partnering with private sector investors to revitalise industrial activities in the state.
He identified key projects targeted under the initiative to include the revival of the Ahoada Industrial Park, the New Port City project and the proposed Bonny Industrial Park, all aimed at stimulating economic growth and expanding industrial opportunities along the Bonny corridor.
According to the governor, the long-term vision is to position Rivers State as a leading manufacturing hub in Southern Nigeria through strategic public-private partnerships.
Governor Fubara also commended Shell Nigeria Gas and MAN for sustaining engagements geared towards improving industrial energy access, noting that gas infrastructure development remains central to the state’s economic recovery plans.
He further observed that the gas sector presents enormous opportunities for economic growth, especially as global energy systems continue to shift towards cleaner energy sources.
The governor called on stakeholders to work collectively towards developing a practical and sustainable gas framework capable of supporting the state’s industrial and energy development objectives.
By; Kevin Nengia
Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, has charged newlywed couples to build their marriages on the virtues of love and submission as taught in the Word of God.
Prof. Odu gave the charge at the wedding ceremony of Amblessed Favour Sunny-Cookey and Samson Jesuganji at Lifegate Power Ministries, Dominion Cathedral, in Port Harcourt on Saturday, 16th May 2026.
The Deputy Governor congratulated the couple on beginning a new phase of life together and prayed for God’s blessings upon their union, noting that the couple had been raised by godly parents and encouraged them to uphold the Christian values instilled in them.
Referring to the sermon delivered during the ceremony, Prof. Odu emphasized that the principles of love and submission remain fundamental to a successful marriage.
According to her, genuine love reflects the nature of God, stressing that love should remain the foundation of the couple’s relationship as they journey through life together.
Prof. Odu further prayed for enduring peace, happiness, and progress in the home, expressing confidence that the marriage would continue to flourish under God’s guidance.
The Deputy Governor also commended the families of the couple for their support and upbringing, while urging the newlyweds to always remember the significance of the day and the commitment they had made before God and witnesses.
In his sermon at the wedding, the Founder and Presiding Pastor of Salvation Ministries, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, stated that marriage did not originate from Western culture, traditions, or human ideas, but from God, whom he described as the “manufacturer” of marriage.
According to the cleric, couples seeking lasting and peaceful homes must rely on biblical principles rather than societal trends or assumptions.
He explained that many marital crises and rising divorce rates stem from ignorance and failure to apply scriptural teachings in family life.
Drawing from the biblical parable of building a house on a rock, Pastor Ibiyeomie said the Word of God remains the only solid foundation capable of sustaining marriages through challenges and difficult times.
He noted that marriage naturally comes with unexpected realities and pressures, stressing that religious ceremonies or cultural practices alone are not enough to sustain a home without proper understanding of God’s instructions.
The pastor further warned that ignorance of scripture remains one of the greatest weapons against believers, urging Christians to study and practice the Word of God rather than merely attending church services.
It would be recalled that the bride is the daughter of Pastor Sunny Cookey the Founder and Presiding Pastor of Lifegate Ministries. The Ceremony had lots of Ministers in attendance which includes Apostle Zilly Aggrey, Pastor George Izunwa, and Bishop Winston Iwo