In order to maintain a tranquil and welcoming environment, the Edo State Government said on Sunday that it is still dedicated to promoting the welfare of all residents of the state, regardless of their background, religion, or ethnicity.
This was said by Umar Musa Ikhilor, the State Government, during the 13th Ramadan lecture of the NTA Benin Network Center, which was held in Benin City in association with the Edo State branch of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, or NSCIA.
Ikhilor promised that the state government would keep working to ensure a peaceful and inclusive society, as represented by Dr. Suleman Ikhuoriah, a member of the Edo State Independent Electoral Commission, or EDSIEC. He said that Ramadan, which is characterized by fasting, prayer, and spiritual development, is a time of spiritual renewal, introspection, and rebirth.
In addition to stressing that the state government supports unity, compassion, self-discipline, empathy, love, charity, and peace, the SSG said that Ramadan is a time to be nice and kind to neighbors and fellow citizens.
He sent the warmest congratulations from the Edo State Government to the state’s Muslim community while congratulating the Muslim Ummah on the holy month of Ramadan.
Earlier, NTA Benin Network Center’s zonal director, Mrs. Teni Ajayi, stated in her welcoming speech that the organization has been hosting its annual Ramadan lecture for more than ten years.
Ajayi, who said the 2025 lecture was themed “Ramadan: A Tool for Societal Reformation,” noted that the management of NTA Benin City uses the platform to bring together eminent personalities from the Muslim community in and around Edo State to sensitize them and the general public on the significance of Ramadan.
“Ramadan is a holy month of fasting, prayer, and communication with God by Muslims. It is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and one of the most sacred times of the year.”
“Ramadan is a time to renew faith, seek forgiveness, and increase self-discipline. It is also a time to empathize with those who are less fortunate in our various communities.”
“As part of our corporate social responsibilities, NTA Benin Network Centre will continue to drive this laudable initiative.”
“For this year, we are very grateful to the Edo State Council for Islamic Affairs for their collaboration in organizing this event,” she said.
Nonetheless, she urged Muslims to follow the example of donating to charity, togetherness, solidarity, and brotherhood or sisterhood.
The Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, NSCIA, Edo State chapter chairman, Alhaji Abdulazeez Igbinidu, praised NTA Benin for its collaboration in advancing Islam, especially through the yearly Ramadan lecture.
