Halima Ibrahim Babangida Foundation Hosts Special Iftar to Promote Peace and Unity in Minna
BY UTHMAN BABA-NASEER,MINNA
Peace has been described as a strong force that unites people and provides lasting solutions to societal challenges.
The Director General of the Halima Ibrahim Babangida Foundation, Afeez Abdulrazaq, stated this during a special iftar organised by the foundation in Minna, the Niger State capital.
Abdulrazaq explained that the event was organised to promote unity, peace, and national cooperation among Nigerians, regardless of their religious or social backgrounds.
According to him, the gathering is the second edition of the foundation’s special iftar programme. He noted that this year’s Ramadan also coincides with the Christian Lenten season, making the event more meaningful in promoting interfaith harmony.
He said the foundation decided to bring people together from different faiths, professions, and social groups as part of efforts to strengthen unity and support nation building.
The Director General explained that the foundation focuses on advancing education, supporting vulnerable people, and encouraging initiatives that contribute to national development.
He noted that the iftar brought together Muslims and Christians, including community leaders, teachers, students, professionals, and government officials.
Abdulrazaq said more than 750 people attended the event, including over 100 Christians who joined Muslims to break the fast. He described the gathering as a clear demonstration of peaceful coexistence and cooperation among Nigerians.
According to him, some Christians also supported the programme by helping to provide food for those observing the fast, which he said shows a strong commitment to unity and mutual understanding.
He explained that the foundation will continue to uphold the legacy of Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida by promoting peace, national cohesion, and programmes that improve the lives of Nigerians.
Abdulrazaq added that the foundation supports students through the payment of school fees and assistance with examination registrations such as the West African Examinations Council examination and the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board examination.
He said students from several institutions attended the programme, including Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Federal University of Technology Minna, and Niger State College of Education Minna.
He stressed that bringing together people of different ages, backgrounds, and beliefs creates an opportunity for learning, understanding, and cooperation, which are essential for national development.
Afeez Abdulrazaq expressed hope that initiatives like the special iftar would continue to strengthen peace, unity, and nation building across the country.
On his part, the guest speaker, Sheikh Nuruddeen Lemu, who delivered a lecture titled “The Qur’an as a Manual for Personal and Social Transformation,” highlighted the importance of reading and studying the Qur’an and applying its teachings in daily life.
He urged people to emulate the lessons of the Qur’an, noting that the holy book provides guidance on how human beings can live a better and more meaningful life.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Imam of the Police Headquarters Minna Niger State, Yakubu Tahir, spoke on important security measures and preventive tips for public safety.
He called on members of the public to remain security conscious and to report any suspicious activities to the relevant authorities.
The programme, which lasted for about eight hours, featured Qur’anic recitation competitions and quiz sessions among participants.
