Federation of Muslim Women Association in Nigeria (FOMWAN) has called on the federal government to declare the 1st of Muharram (the first day of the Islamic calendar) a national prayer day.
The FOMWAN Amirah, Hajia Rafiah Idowu, made the call in a statement to commemorate 1446 Hijrah.
The association noted that as the country is going through a trying period, both the leaders and the people need to return to Almighty Allah and seek His intervention.
The group also implored the government to implement food price control to address the problem of hunger ravaging the nation.
It implored the government at all levels and security agencies to intensify efforts to combat the country’s insecurity.
While congratulating the Muslims on the commencement of new Islamic calendar, FOMWAN urged them to imbibe the lessons of Hijrah which include tolerance, perseverance, steadfastness and fear of Allah.
It asked Nigerians to use the Hijrah celebration to pray for divine guidance for the country’s leadership.
The group stressed the need for the Sokoto State government to honour and respect the Sultan of Sokoto as the leader of Muslims in the country and the traditional ruler.
It appreciated the Sultan of Sokoto’s support for women’s development and empowerment and the association’s activities, among other things.
It commended state governments, including Kwara, that had declared 1st Muharram as a work-free day.