By Abimbola Ogunnaike
President Muhammadu Buhari has hosted religious and traditional leaders from across the six geopolitical zones of the country at an Iftar dinner (breaking of fast) as part of his ongoing official engagements in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
At the end of the event, President Buhari underscored the policy of his administration to develop all parts of the country without discrimination.
Buhari expressed the hope that the special occasion of Ramadan will deepen the spirit of harmony in Nigeria and inspire citizens to work hard for the country and care for those who are in need.
The President, in a statement issued Tuesday, 18 April, 2023 by his media aide, Malam Garba Shehu, expressed appreciation to his guests, the traditional and spiritual leaders whom he said, “have the unity of the country so deep-rooted in the mind of every one of you.”
The Emirs of Kano and Bichi in Kano State, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero and Alhaji Nasiru Ado Bayero respectively who spoke after the event said only a united country can move forward and attain its goals.
The religious leaders in attendance were Malam Abubakar Abdulwaheed Sulaiman, the Chief Imam of Aso Rock Villa, Sheikh Al-Kanawi Alhassan Ahmed, Dr Bashir Aliyu Umar, Muhammad Kamaluddeen Lemu, Nuruddeen Danesi Asunogie, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Adiatu and Sheikh Haroun Ogbonnia Ajah.
Others were Alhaji Ibrahim Kasuwar Magani, Professor Shehu Ahmed Sa’id Galadanchi and Alhaji Bala Lau.
The President had also met the Otaru of Auchi, Dr Aliru Highbred Momoh, Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Mamman Bage, Emir of Bauchi, Rilwan Adamu Sulaiman, Akadiri Saliu Momoh, Abdulfatah Chimaeze Emetumah, Fatima Ijeoma Emetumah and Alhaji Isa Sanusi Bayero.
The presidential spokesman said prayers were offered for peace in the country, the successful end of the term of the President and for the success of the incoming administration.
