MAAN Urges Nigerians to Embrace Unity, Reject Criminality as Islamic New Year 1448AH Begins

 

Abuja, Nigeria — The Muslims Alliance Association of Nigeria (MAAN) has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, patriotism, and peaceful coexistence as Muslims across the country mark the commencement of the Islamic New Year, 1448AH.

In a goodwill message issued to commemorate the Hijrah celebration, the National President of MAAN, Abdulwaheed Olowonjaye, extended congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, members of the Federal Executive Council, leaders at all levels, and all Nigerians on the occasion of the Islamic New Year.

Olowonjaye described the Hijrah of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) as a historic event that symbolizes sacrifice, courage, transformation, and the pursuit of justice and righteousness. He noted that the migration was a divine mandate and remains a timeless lesson for humanity.

According to him, the significance of Hijrah goes beyond physical migration, stressing that it serves as a reminder for individuals and nations to move away from negative attitudes and actions toward noble values and constructive endeavors.

He urged Nigerians to collectively abandon divisive politics, corruption, hatred, and unpatriotic conduct, while embracing policies and initiatives that promote national development, security, unity, and shared prosperity.

The MAAN president encouraged citizens to remain hopeful and supportive of genuine government policies aimed at improving the welfare of the people and delivering the dividends of democracy.

Addressing the country's security challenges, Olowonjaye warned against attributing criminal activities to any religion, ethnicity, or political group. He emphasized that criminality should be condemned irrespective of the identity of the perpetrators.

“Crime is crime, regardless of who commits it, and every act of criminality must be condemned unequivocally,” he stated, while calling on Nigerians to cooperate with security agencies and relevant authorities to ensure that offenders are brought to justice.

He further stressed that maintaining peace and security is a collective responsibility and urged citizens to contribute to safeguarding Nigeria’s unity and stability.

As Muslims begin the new Islamic year, the MAAN president prayed for enduring peace, progress, unity, and prosperity for Nigeria. He also sought divine guidance for the country's leaders and success in their efforts to move the nation forward.

Olowonjaye commended members of MAAN across the country for their dedication and loyalty to the association, assuring them of the leadership's commitment to advancing the organisation’s objectives.

He also announced plans for the association’s forthcoming Northern and Southern Regional Conferences, as well as its National Conference, which are expected to bring together delegates from MAAN branches nationwide for strategic discussions, engagement, and organisational development.

The MAAN president concluded by praying for Allah’s blessings upon Nigeria and the global Muslim community, expressing hope that the year 1448AH would bring peace, progress, and abundant achievements for all.