The Jama'atu Nasril Islam (JNI) has urged Muslims across Nigeria to strengthen their faith and religious practices despite the country's ongoing socio-economic challenges and security concerns.
In a statement issued regarding the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, JNI Secretary-General, Prof. Khalid Abubakar Aliyu, emphasized that these days are considered the most blessed of the year in Islam and called on Muslims to intensify their worship during this period.
"We must not relent as Muslims. Despite the seeming socio-economic deprivations and security challenges, our solace should be trust in Allah. We must not forgo our Aakhirah (hereafter) for this Dunya (mundane world). The Nigerian factor should not derail us from being good servants of Allah," the statement read.
Recommended Acts of Worship
Prof. Aliyu outlined several recommended acts of worship for Muslims to perform during these sacred days, including:
- Dhikr (constant remembrance and glorification of Allah), especially frequent repetition of "Allahu Akbar Allahu Akbar, Laa'ilaha ilallahu Wallahu Akbar Allahu Akbar Walillahil-Hamd"
- Recitation of the Glorious Qur'an
- Seeking Allah's forgiveness (Istighfar)
- Extending kindness to relatives
- Sharing with the poor and needy
- Making peace and reconciliation
- Visiting the sick
Guidelines for Eid Sacrifice
The JNI statement also provided specific guidance for those planning to sacrifice an animal during Eid. Muslims intending to make a sacrifice are advised to refrain from hair shaving of all forms and cutting of finger and foot nails until after the Eid prayers.
"It is also desirable for those who would offer a sacrificial animal not to take breakfast on the 'Eid day, until after observing the 'Eid prayers and slaughtering of their respective animals, and eat therefrom after the slaughtering," the statement added.
The JNI's message comes at a time when many Nigerians are facing economic hardships, with the organization emphasizing that spiritual devotion should remain steadfast regardless of worldly challenges.
