Former Senate President, Dr Bukola Saraki, on Tuesday, urged religious leaders, including Muslim faithful to use the occasion of Ramadan to pray for Nigeria's turnaround.

He made the call when he hosted different groups of people for Iftar at his Ilorin residence and also distributed food items to Muslim faithful and others in Kwara State.

Beneficiaries of the food items include traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, party faithful, artisans, youth and women groups.

This was contained in a statement in Ilorin by his Press Officer on Local Matters, Abdulganiyu Abdulqadir, made available to journalists on Wednesday.

According to the statement, the distribution of the food items was in fulfillment of Saraki's annual practice and a gesture to ensure that everyone observes the Ramadan practice in comfort.

Addressing guests at his residence during the breaking of the day's fast, Saraki stressed the need to spread love and further bond together during the holy month of Ramadan and beyond.

He reiterated his call for prayer for the nation at this critical time of mounting security challenges and economic hardship.

“It is my utmost joy to be with you all at this season of piety and supplication, to pray with you and observe Iftar as directed by Prophet Mohammed (SAW).

“I appreciate your presence and love always and want to beseech you to spend the fasting period praying for a turnaround in our nation's fortune.

“Let us also continue to show love, unite, and build a formidable force towards the emancipation of our land,” he said.

The Waziri Ngeri of Ilorin Emirate, on Monday, arrived in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, and has since been playing host to political associates, individuals, and groups.