ANLCA National President, Iju Tony Nwabunike

National President of the Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents ANLCA, Hon. Iju Tony Nwabunike has enjoined Nigerian Muslims to always imbibe the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon Him) associated with the holy month of Ramadan typified in self-denial, persistent prayers and tolerance as they celebrate the 2022 Eid-el-Ftri, which marks the one-month long fasting.

Nwabunike in a message he personally signed and copy made available to our Correspondent, said it has become necessary to hold on to these virtues as individuals, which would impact on the Nigerian nation, especially at this critical moment in her quest towards nationhood.

He noted that Nigeria as a nation needs these virtues of prayers and alms giving to the needy, among several others, which characterised the one month of Ramadan fast even beyond the fasting period both as individuals and as a nation.

The ANLCA-boss further enjoined every Nigerian whether Christians or Muslims in all segments of the Nigerian society be it maritime, aviation, politics and civil service, who superintend over the affairs of the nation to exhibit love and fear of God in all their dealings and urged everyone to adhere to the rules governing their areas of operation.    

The message reads in part: “The Eid -el Fitri celebration which marks the end of a month long Ramadan fast period is instructive in our national life as Nigerians. In deed our Muslim brothers and sisters have gone through a period of self- denial, persistently praying and always giving alms to the needy in line with the dictates of their faith.

“These great virtues, which rub on our national life, teaches us piety, love, tolerance and selflessness associated with the teachings of the revered Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him).

“Whereas as a Catholic, our Lent period this year coincided with many days of the Ramadan fasting period, I know that the good works believers practiced during fasting can be sustained and continued after the fasting period.

“If we shunned schisms, showed more love and did works of charity during Ramadan, we can continue in that path forever as a way of re-creating a more peaceful and prosperous Nigeria.

“Going by way of a homily to address our secular audience in the maritime, aviation and total logistics sectors, I want to urge politicians, and public servants superintending over us, who are adherents of the faiths to lead Nigeria with the fear of God.

“Obedience to rules governing our operations is the key to unlocking the many identified but untapped potential in the country. Anytime I hear the word ‘compliance’ in our trade parlance or area used in addressing private sector players, I feel a sense of narrow mindedness by the users of such expression.

“Government agencies owe Nigeria and Nigerians the duty to also be compliant by discharging their duties without fear or favour and totally avoiding compromise of their positions for personal gains.

“Total compliance by all will enable technology work for us and present us truly as nation- builders, who obey the teachings of our religious leanings. We all have roles in building our country and these trying times we have found ourselves in place enormous responsibilities on our shoulders as citizens. Happy Eid El Fitri.”