The Obalewu of Ijebu land, Otunba Abayomi Odunowo marking the beginning of 1442 A.H on the ttsCalendar.
Otunba Abayomi Odunowo the Obalewu of Ijebu land while addressing Muslims in Ogun state, Nigeria and across the globe to observe their New Year day on the first day of the month of Muharram.
This year will be the 1442 Islamic Hijri on the occasion of the Islamic New Year, while marking the beginning of 1442 A.H on the Hijri Calendar.
Otunba Odunowo prayed and expressed his optimism that the Islamic New Year will bring greater fortune and prosperity to the entire country and Islamic community, in spite of the challenges we face from the ongoing pandemic, Covid-19.
Odunowo acknowledged that Ogun state, Nigeria and the entire global community is faced with trying circumstances. He remarked that it is our collective responsibility to learn from our hardships, while also reflecting on years past. He added that Islamic history is replete with examples highlighting the importance of Muslims maintaining their strong communal bonds, stressing that it is only through a collective effort that we can preserve and ensure the progress of our countries and communities.
He urged Ogun people and Nigerians in general to look after their families and to especially attend to the needs of the vulnerable, such as children and the elderly.
He remarked that like many other countries the Nigeria is also suffering the consequences of the pandemic; we confront novel socio-economic obstacles and the pace of our national progress has slowed. The Government will require the help of its citizens in its efforts to build back better, he remarked, while also expressing his firm determination that the Ogun state post-pandemic future should give much greater roles and responsibilities to women and youth.
The Odunowo concluded his remarks with a prayer, in which he asked Almighty Allah to bless the Ogun state and Nigeria and the entire Islamic community with progress and prosperity. Otunba Obalewu also included all of humanity in his prayers, asking God to protect them from the dangers of Covid-19, and to ensure their good health and well-being.
