NACA: Muslims Should Maintain Purity During Eid-el-Fitr

Muslims have been urged and advised to maintain their commitment to purity and sanctity which was observed during Ramadan and to avoid engaging in risky sexual behaviours.

The advice was given by the Director General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Dr. Temitope Ilori on Wednesday in an Eid-el-Fitr message issued in Abuja by the agency’s Head, Public Relations and Protocol, Toyin Aderibigbe.

The Federal Government had declared Tuesday to Thursday as public holidays to mark the Eid-el-Fitr celebration. Eid-el-Fitr is celebrated by Muslims to mark the end of the month-long fasting of Ramadan.

While highlighting the importance of the occasion, Ilori said it does not only signify a conclusion of fasting, prayer, and introspection but also a period to foster unity, compassion, and generosity within the Muslim community and beyond.

She stated, “On behalf of NACA, I convey heartfelt wishes of peace, joy, and prosperity to our Muslim brothers and sisters nationwide as they celebrate the joyous occasion of Eid el-Fitr. May this moment bring abundant blessings, renewed resilience, and spiritual fulfilment to all,” she stated.

Ilori underscored the profound importance of Eid el-Fitr in Islam, noting that it embodies principles of forgiveness, gratitude, and solidarity.

The NACA boss also encouraged gatherings of families and friends to share in festive meals, exchange gifts, and extend acts of kindness to the less fortunate.

She added, “I urge the Muslims to maintain their commitment to purity and sanctity observed during Ramadan. I advise against engaging in risky sexual behaviours.

“By adhering to Islamic teachings and practising abstinence or safe sexual practices, individuals can safeguard themselves and their partners from the transmission of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted infections.”

Furthermore, she reaffirmed NACA’s dedication to promoting health, well-being, and inclusivity for all communities, irrespective of faith or background, adding, “In the spirit of solidarity and empathy, all of us at NACA extend warm wishes for a joyous and tranquil Sallah to everyone celebrating Eid-el-Fitr.”