The Ashraaf Islamic Foundation, under the leadership of Imam Sharafudeen AbdulSalam Aliagan, extends warm greetings to the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and across the globe on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr 1446AH.
In a press statement issued by the Foundation’s Director of Information and Communications, Malam Abdulrahman Aliagan, the organization expressed gratitude to Almighty Allah for granting Muslims the privilege of observing another Ramadan. The Foundation emphasized that fasting in Ramadan is not merely an obligation but a divine training period aimed at attaining Taqwah (God-consciousness), which is the ultimate purpose of fasting.
Quoting the Holy Qur’an, Imam Aliagan reiterated the significance of fasting as a means to achieve righteousness:
“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183)
The Foundation emphasised that Taqwah is the purpose of fasting and it consists of four essential components that every believer must uphold:
“Absolute Fear and Consciousness of Allah by developing a deep awareness of Allah’s presence in all aspects of life, leading to self-restraint and moral uprightness.
“Acting in Accordance with the Teachings of the Holy Qur’an – Taking the Qur’an as a life manual and adhering to its guidance in daily affairs.
“Contentment with Allah’s Provisions, an act of being grateful and satisfied with whatever Allah has bestowed in all aspects of life, whether abundant or limited.
“Preparation for the Last Day, by living a life of righteousness in anticipation of the inevitable return to Allah and the accountability of one’s deeds.”
Imam Aliagan stressed that these principles should not be confined to Ramadan alone but should guide a believer’s actions throughout the year. He quoted a hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W) to reinforce the need for discipline and self-restraint:
“The fast is a shield, so let [the one fasting] not behave obscenely or act ignorantly. If someone fights him or insults him, let him say: I am fasting, I am fasting.” (Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim)
The Foundation further urged Muslims to uphold values such as patience, generosity, and sincerity in their daily lives, as these virtues strengthen faith and foster societal harmony.
Beyond personal piety, the Foundation encouraged the Muslim Ummah to use this sacred period to pray fervently for Nigeria, asking Allah to guide its leaders towards justice, wisdom, and selfless service. It also emphasized the need for divine intervention for national peace, security, and prosperity.
“We call upon all Muslims to intensify prayers for our dear nation, Nigeria. May Allah guide our leaders with wisdom, grant our country peace and prosperity, and help our youth find meaningful opportunities to contribute positively to national development,” it added.
The Foundation also reminded Muslims of the importance of kindness, unity, and support for the less privileged, highlighting the Prophet’s words:
“The best of people are those who are most beneficial to mankind.” (Hadith, Ahmad)
In conclusion, the Ashraaf Islamic Foundation wished all Muslims a joyous and spiritually fulfilling Eid-ul-Fitr, praying that Allah accepts their fasting, prayers, and good deeds, and grants them the opportunity to witness many more Ramadans in good health and faith.
