By Sururat Odusanya

Muslims have been charged to uphold the spiritual, moral and social benefits of Ramadan in order to strengthen their faith and contribute positively to society.

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is not merely a period of abstaining from food and drinks but a time for spiritual growth and self-reflection.

The Guest Lecturer, Imam Aqeeb Idris, stated this during the first Annual Ramadan Lecture organised by the Office of the Auditor-General for the State Muslim Community at the Conference Hall, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Speaking on the theme, “Ramadan Fast: Maximising the Spiritual, Moral and Social Benefits,” Imam Idris explained that the fasting period discourages Muslims from lying, backbiting, insults and oppression.

He noted that fasting from dawn to sunset allows Muslims to focus more on prayers, charity, spiritual development and strengthening of faith.

“It is the season of worship and competing in good deeds. Ramadan brings a triple win. The greatest objective of fasting is Taqwa, fear of the Almighty Allah and preparation for the Day of Departure. It involves placing a protective shield between oneself and Allah’s punishment through obedience and avoidance of sins,” he said.

The lecturer further explained the moral benefit of guarding one’s tongue and lips, noting that whoever provides food for another person to break their fast will receive a reward.

According to him, the act strengthens family and community bonds, encourages generosity, and promotes unity and compassion.

He therefore admonished Muslims to set clear spiritual goals during the holy month by reading the Qur’an, giving charity, reducing unnecessary distractions, observing Tarawih and Tahajjud (night prayers), and observing I’tikaf during the last ten days of Ramadan.

Imam Idris concluded by saying that Ramadan presents a true opportunity for transformation, quoting the saying of Muhammad (SAW):

“May his nose be rubbed in dust—the one who reaches Ramadan and it passes without him being forgiven.”

In his welcome address, the State Auditor-General, who also served as the Chief Host, AbdulLateef Balogun, described Ramadan as a month of divine mercy and total devotion to worship.

He urged the congregation to remain transparent and mindful of their actions, reminding them that everyone would be accountable for their deeds before Allah.

Delivering his address as Chairman of the occasion, the Commissioner for Community Development and Cooperatives, Ademola Balogun, represented by the Director of Community Development, Mr. Olanrewaju Fayoyin, commended the organisers of the programme and encouraged Muslims to allow the spirit of the holy month to guide their daily lives.

In his goodwill message, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Strategy, Waheed Adesina, advised Muslims to serve as good role models by positively influencing their communities and inspiring others through their actions.

He urged them to embody the values of kindness, compassion and integrity as taught in Islam.

Other dignitaries present at the event included the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Muftau Towolawi; the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Cabinet and Special Services, Olanrewaju Saka; and the Director of Information Technology in the Office of the Accountant-General, AbdulFattah Odusanya.