President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to pray for the nation's troops who are on the frontlines battling insurgents and bandits, particularly in the Northeast and Northwest regions.
In his Eid-el-Kabir message to the Muslim faithful, President Tinubu urged citizens to remember security personnel in their prayers, stating, “Let us continue our prayers for our front-line officers, who risk their lives for our safety and security.”
He also encouraged Nigerians to pray for peace, the country’s leaders at all levels, and national unity amid global and domestic uncertainties. “Let us dedicate this sacred celebration to seeking God’s guidance and blessings for our country,” he added.
Eid-el-Kabir, observed worldwide through the symbolic slaughtering of rams, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering obedience to God’s command to sacrifice his son.
Joining in the goodwill messages were Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume, and Senator Tokunbo Abiru. They all urged Muslims to embrace the values of love, sacrifice, and patriotism in service to nation-building.
President Tinubu also addressed the nation’s economic situation, noting that while recent reforms have been tough, they are necessary to reset the economy on a path of sustainable growth.
“Our administration will continue acting in the nation’s best interest, ensuring that the gains we are recording translate into improving people’s lives,” he stated. “There are no quick fixes, but we are committed to repairing the foundations of our economy once and for all.”
Acknowledging the hardships caused by these reforms, the President reassured Nigerians that the most difficult phase is behind and the country is now entering a phase of “renewed hope and prosperity.”
“Positive signs are beginning to emerge across key sectors. Soon, all will feel the benefits,” he said, urging citizens to remain resilient, patient, and faithful. “We may not yet be where we aspire to be, but let us persevere.”
The President concluded his message by encouraging all Nigerians to reflect on the spirit of Eid and embody the virtues of selflessness, devotion, and sacrifice demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim.
As Muslims across Nigeria celebrate Eid-el-Kabir, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other national leaders have called for renewed dedication to peace, sacrifice, and prayers for the country, particularly for troops confronting insurgency in the Northeast and Northwest.
The President, in a statement, described the festival as a time for deep reflection, urging Muslims to emulate the selflessness of Prophet Ibrahim and uphold the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). He called on Nigerians to pray for the nation’s leaders and for peace amidst global and local challenges.
Akpabio Calls for Patience and National Unity
Senate President Godswill Akpabio urged citizens to embrace obedience, faith, and selflessness, drawing from the spirit of the Eid. In a statement by his media aide, Eseme Eyiboh, Akpabio highlighted the need for sacrifice and compassion and praised President Tinubu’s reform efforts aimed at long-term economic stability.
He said: “Let us use this occasion to promote interfaith harmony, national unity, and development. May Allah bless our nation and grant us peace and prosperity.”
Speaker Abbas: Let Prayers and Sacrifice Lead Us Forward
House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, speaking from Saudi Arabia where he is observing Hajj, encouraged Nigerians to pray for unity and national prosperity. In a message via his media aide, Musa Krishi, he stressed the importance of selflessness and renewed hope.
Barau: Support the Needy and the Nation
Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau called on Muslims to show love, unity, and care for the needy. He urged continued prayers for Nigeria’s peace and prosperity and emphasized that true Muslims should embody peace, tolerance, justice, and charity.
Akume: Recommit to National Development
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, in a message marking both Eid and the second anniversary of the Tinubu administration, encouraged Nigerians to reflect on values such as peace, compassion, and patriotism. He reaffirmed the government's commitment to economic reform, improved governance, and national security.
Abiru: Foster Tolerance and Faith
Senator Tokunbo Abiru of Lagos East called on Nigerians to promote peace, religious harmony, and collective responsibility during this sacred season. In a statement by his aide, Enitan Olukotun, he emphasized resilience and unity, urging support for leaders working toward national recovery.
Prince Samuel: Pray for Peace and Progress
Industrialist and Chairman of Origin Tech Group, Prince S.J. Samuel, appealed to Nigerians to embrace peace, love, and humility. He encouraged reflection on the values of Eid and emphasized the need for collective efforts to build a more prosperous nation.
CAN: Leaders Must Sacrifice for National Good
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the 19 Northern States and the FCT, through its chairman, Rev. John Joseph Hayab, called on political leaders to mirror the obedience and sacrifice exemplified during Sallah.
Highlighting insecurity, economic hardship, and social unrest, CAN stressed that leadership must move beyond promises and take decisive action to restore public trust. The association urged religious and community leaders to promote peaceful coexistence and avoid divisive rhetoric.
Rev. Hayab concluded: “Let the leadership act decisively so Nigerians will no longer have reasons to question or complain.”
ADEOLA KUNLE
