By Forum staff writer
President Julius Maada Bio and First Lady Fatima Maada Bio joined Muslims in Sierra Leone and across the world to observe Eid al Fitr prayers at the Presidential Lodge in Freetown, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan with messages of unity, faith, and national cohesion.
The prayer gathering brought together worshippers who reflected on the spiritual journey of Ramadan and the values it promotes, including discipline, sacrifice, and devotion to God. The occasion also served as a moment for national reflection, with leaders and citizens united in prayer for peace and progress.
Delivering the sermon, Sheikh Umar Chernoh Bangura highlighted the importance of trust in God and the deeper meaning of fasting. He described Ramadan as a period that strengthens faith and obedience to Allah, noting that fasting is one of the core pillars of Islam and a demonstration of a believer’s commitment to spiritual growth.
The Imam called on Sierra Leoneans to embrace love, unity, and peaceful coexistence, regardless of their religious or social backgrounds. He stressed that the country’s strength lies in its diversity and the ability of its people to live together in harmony.
He also urged citizens to continue praying for national leaders, emphasizing that effective leadership is essential for development and stability. Sheikh Bangura commended President Bio for his continued support to the Muslim community, particularly for opening the Presidential Lodge for daily prayers and iftar during Ramadan, a gesture he said reflects respect and inclusiveness.
In his address, President Bio expressed gratitude to God for granting Muslims the strength and opportunity to complete the fast. He thanked the Muslim community for their prayers and acknowledged their role in promoting peace and unity across the country.
The President emphasized that Sierra Leone’s religious tolerance remains one of its greatest assets. He encouraged citizens to continue upholding the values of respect, understanding, and coexistence as the nation moves forward.
Reflecting on his personal background, President Bio shared that although he is a Christian, his upbringing exposed him closely to Islam through his mother, who was a devoted Muslim. He recalled accompanying her to the mosque during his childhood, an experience he said helped shape his appreciation for interfaith harmony and mutual respect.
He reaffirmed his commitment to serving all Sierra Leoneans without discrimination and called for continued prayers for the nation’s peace, unity, and development. He urged citizens to carry forward the lessons of Ramadan and apply them in their daily lives.
First Lady Fatima Maada Bio also addressed the gathering, expressing appreciation to the Imam and the Muslim community for their active participation throughout Ramadan. She thanked the President for making the Presidential Lodge accessible for worship and commended religious leaders for their guidance during the holy month.
She concluded with prayers for Allah to accept the fast of the faithful and to reward them abundantly.
The event highlighted Sierra Leone’s long standing tradition of religious harmony, with leaders and citizens coming together in a shared spirit of faith, respect, and national unity.
