The Chief Imam of 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Lt.-Col. Husein Eleje, has urged Nigerians to use the month of Ramadan to draw closer to Almighty Allah and shun materialism.

Mr Eleje said on Friday in Enugu that the month of Ramadan and its fasting opened up the mercies of Almighty Allah upon mankind.

According to him, Almighty Allah always showers people with His limitless bounties and generosity during Ramadan, even as the fasting disciplines one to feel the pain of hunger and emptiness as a mortal.

He said, “Sincerely, we all need God’s help and grace to live above sins and personal shortcomings. We are also enjoined as Nigerians to use Ramadan period to pray for Almighty Allah’s wisdom and guidance on our leaders, as they needed our continuous prayers and support to excel.’’

The chief imam said that the Ramadan was made compulsory for every adult Muslim, who had reached the age of puberty.

According to him, Ramadan is compulsory as commanded by Almighty Allah, saying that it is in fact, one of the compulsory five pillars of Islam.

He stated, “Ramadan is compulsory for all except for the little children or those sick and weak to observe it. Other persons exempted from fasting are the aged, above 70 years who are weak; nursing mothers and pregnant women who due to their special condition cannot make it as well as those on long journeys. However, those that missed fasting during the Ramadan would have to do theirs when they are relieved from their previous condition or situation.’’.

Recall that Islamic authorities in Nigeria directed Muslim faithful to observe and sight the new moon, which signifies the commencement of Ramadan fasting in the country.

(NAN)