In a remarkable display of interfaith harmony, the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA ) community came together to share the benefits of fasting as Muslims begin the Ramadan fasting on Saturday.
The Commandant of the academy, Maj.-Gen. John Ochai, said, “We lay a lot of emphasis on spirituality in the training of our cadets.”
The NDA Pre-Ramadan Lecture was themed: “The Benefits and Blessings of Ramadan’.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Guest Lecturer was Sheikh Muhammad Bin Uthman, the Chief Imam, Sahaba Mosque Kano State.
The commandant was represented by Deputy Commandant AVM Abubakar Abdulkadir.
He said, “Spirituality in an institution like NDA can never be overemphasised as you know this is the only regular combatant officer
training institution in the nigerian armed forces.
“All our future military leaders, our present military leaders and our past military leaders were trained in this institution so, we lay a lot of emphasis on spirituality.
“Now NDA organises this kind of lecture at the beginning of every Ramadan.
“What is different this time around this lecture is organised for both the Muslim and non-Muslim community of the academy and the reason is not farfetched.”
He said that Ramadan would start on Sunday and immediately after Ramadan, Lenten season would also come in.
“That underscores the importance of fasting in both religions. We have organised this programme so that everybody will share this discussion on
the benefits of fasting, spiritual benefits, health benefits, physical and mental benefits of fasting, and that is the essence of this program,” Ochai said.
Uthman said fasting was a powerful tool for boosting the body’s immune system.
According to him, fasting reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, triggering autophagy, and increasing white blood cell production.
He added that fasting can help to keep the immune system strong and resilient.
“Whether you’re looking to improve your overall health or specifically boost your immune function, fasting is definitely worth considering, “he said.
He said Ramadan was a month of determination, commitment, tolerance, understanding, connectivity.
He prayed for the Armed Forces of Nigeria for more courage to preserve the corporate existence of the nation, peace and stability.
The cleric added, “May NDA grow in strength, prosperity, and everything that it takes for a nation to be on the high side of development.”
Uthman appealed to businessmen to reduce the prices of goods and build the spirit of mercy in the month of Ramadan.
“Please stop skyrocketing prices beyond the reach of the common man, “Uthman appealed.
