As Muslims commence the 30-day  Ramadan fasting, President Muhammadu Buhari has sent a goodwill message.

The President in the message urged Muslims to “project the best and finest virtues of Islam by personal conduct, and not precept” throughout the period.

In the statement issued by his spokesman, Malam Garba Shehu, on Wednesday in Abuja, Buhari encourages them to be kind and show love to humanity.

“Let us use this opportunity to put the best teachings of Islam into practice, such as kindness and the love of humanity.

“This is an occasion for deep reflection and greater fear of Allah and avoidance of all evils that harm humanity,” he said.

Buhari stated that Ramadan involves abstention from food and drinks from dawn to dusk, through which both the wealthy and the poor share the experience of hunger together.

This according to the President strengthens the bonds between those who have and those who do not.

“As we begin these 30 days fasting season, let us not forget that Ramadan is not only about abstention from eating and drinking, but it is a reminder to refrain from all kinds of evil and transgressions that harm humanity,” he added.

The President condemned the artificial increase in the prices of goods, especially food, at the beginning of the month of Ramadan.

“I am particularly aware of the activities of traders who artificially increase the prices of their goods, including food at the beginning of every month of Ramadan.

”This kind of exploitation is against the spirit of the Ramadan and the spirit of Islam,” he expressed.

Buhari further encouraged rich individuals and organisations to distribute food ad drinks to those who cannot afford them in the society.

“While we are observing this important occasion in the spiritual life of Muslims, let us share food and drinks with the less fortunate.

”Because by sharing our blessings with others, Allah will multiply our rewards for good deeds,” he urged.