Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Premium Times
Published on 2024-04-07 17:48:36
The federal government has declared Tuesday and Wednesday, 9th and 10th of April, as public holidays to mark the Eid-el-Fitri festival. This announcement was made in anticipation of the end of Ramadan, the Islamic month during which Muslims fast from dusk to dawn for 29 or 30 days. The festivities will be observed by Muslims worldwide in celebration of the conclusion of Ramadan. Ramadan, a time of fasting and reflection, is expected to conclude on Monday or Tuesday night, depending on the sighting of the moon.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, officially declared the public holidays in a statement released by his ministry on Sunday. The Eid-el-Fitri festival is a significant celebration in the Islamic calendar and holds great cultural and religious importance for Muslims around the world.
As Muslims prepare for the festivities, families and communities come together to break their fast, offer prayers, and engage in acts of charity and goodwill. The Eid prayer, a special congregational prayer held in open spaces or mosques, marks the beginning of the celebrations. After the prayer, Muslims greet each other with the traditional “Eid Mubarak,” meaning “blessed feast.”
During the Eid-el-Fitri festival, it is customary for Muslims to give Zakat al-Fitr, a form of charity aimed at helping those in need. This act of giving back to the community reinforces the values of compassion, solidarity, and generosity emphasized during Ramadan.
In addition to religious observances, the Eid-el-Fitri festival is characterized by feasting, social gatherings, and exchanging gifts. Families prepare special dishes and desserts, and children receive gifts and money from relatives as part of the festive traditions.
As the public holidays approach, Muslims are encouraged to reflect on the spiritual significance of Ramadan and the lessons learned during the month of fasting. The Eid-el-Fitri festival serves as a time for renewal, forgiveness, and gratitude, as well as an opportunity to strengthen bonds with family and friends.
In conclusion, the declaration of public holidays for the Eid-el-Fitri festival is a testament to the federal government’s commitment to honoring the religious and cultural diversity of its citizens. As Muslims across the country prepare to celebrate, the spirit of unity, peace, and harmony prevails, reflecting the true essence of the festival. May this Eid-el-Fitri bring blessings, joy, and prosperity to all those who observe it. Eid Mubarak!
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