President Bola Tinubu, his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his deputy, Barau Jibrin; and governors have joined millions of Muslim faithful to celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.

In separate statements, the political leaders emphasised the importance of unity, love and hope among Nigerians.

Muslims all over the world celebrate Eid-el-Kabir, a major religious festivity to commemorate the willingness of the Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as an act of obedience to Allah. The celebration is marked with the slaughter of rams and other animals.

President Tinubu described the season as “a time for gratitude to Almighty Allah for His countless mercies upon us as individuals and a nation”.

He said the season called for a reflection of the core values of sacrifice, devotion, and selflessness that signify the season.

“Eid-el-Kabir also reminds us of our responsibilities beyond faith: to show resilience, tolerance, compassion, and dedication to the progress of our beloved country.

“Though the journey has not been easy, and some doubted our direction, the resilience of public and private sector leaders, along with the steadfast support of most Nigerians, is yielding results. I assure you that the toughest days are behind us. We are entering a new era of renewed hope and prosperity that we promised two years ago.

“We may not yet be where we aspire to be, but I urge all Nigerians not to lose hope. Let us hold on to our faith and persevere. Our reforms are gaining traction, with key economic indicators now moving in a positive direction. Soon, all will feel the benefits,” he said.

Tinubu called for prayers for front-line officers, who risk their lives for the safety and security of all.

Additionally, the president’s wife extended her greetings to all our Muslim faithful across the nation on the occasion of this year’s Eid al-Adha.

“This is a time of deep reflection on the values of sacrifice, obedience, compassion, and faith.

“It is also a time to show kindness and generosity. I urge you to remember your neighbours and extend a hand of love and support, especially to the less privileged,” she said.

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On their part, the leaders of the Senate urged Nigerians to be patient and peaceful as the country navigates its current socio-economic challenges.

Akpabio urged all Nigerians to embody the virtues of faith, hope, peace and love, even as they foster a culture of peace, understanding and cooperation.

“I encourage all Nigerians to remain patient, resilient, and committed to our collective progress.

“Let us use this occasion to promote interfaith harmony, national unity, and development. May Allah bless our nation and grant us peace and prosperity,” he said.

The deputy Senate president also emphasised the importance of unity among citizens during and after the festivities.

He called on Nigerians to continue praying for the country’s well-being and to offer their full support to the government’s efforts.

Prayer Key — Govs

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum urged citizens of Borno and beyond to use the festive period to remember the troops on the frontlines and all those who continue to sacrifice their lives for the region’s stability.

He vowed to intensify efforts to strengthen security in all resettled local government areas. He emphasised that the state government will maintain close collaboration with the federal government, the Armed Forces, and other security agencies to achieve sustainable peace.

“Prayer is the key to our success,” he remarked. “A few weeks ago, I called for a special day of prayer and fasting, which received overwhelming support. This demonstrates our collective resolve to end this conflict.”

Zulum reassured the people that his administration would not rest on its oars until security is restored in the entire state.

Similarly, Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, described prayer as a path to attaining growth and development in any society. He also advised the general public to pray individually and collectively for peace to reign.

The governor called on Muslims to use the Sallah period to mend some moribund relationships for the good of society.

Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State also appealed to residents to use the occasion to intercede and offer fervent prayers for the nation’s leadership.

Responsible Celebrations

For Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, Muslims should reflect on the core lessons of the celebration, which include compassion, generosity, and submission to God’s will.

“As we commemorate Eid al-Adha, let us be reminded of the spirit of sacrifice exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham),” Okpebholo stated. “This significant occasion calls for us to deepen our faith, uphold the virtues of peaceful coexistence, and extend a hand of fellowship to our neighbours, irrespective of their religious beliefs.”

He encouraged everyone to celebrate responsibly, adhere to safety guidelines, and remember those less fortunate by sharing the blessings of the season.

Similarly, Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, urged Muslims to remember those in need and extend love to them in the spirit of the season.

“As we gather with family and friends, let us remember those in need and extend our hands to help them. The true essence of Eid lies in our ability to share our blessings with others,” he said.

The governor also emphasised the importance of unity and harmony among all religious adherents in the state, noting that Eid-el-Adha serves as a reminder of the need to come together to foster peace and understanding among all citizens.

“In these challenging times, let us use this occasion to strengthen our bonds of friendship,” he urged.

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, urged Nigerians “to remain steadfast in their faith in God and our shared commitment to the Nigerian project”.

“Let us continue to promote peaceful coexistence, support sustainable development efforts, and reject anything that undermines the growth and unity of Nigeria, our fatherland,” he said.

The suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, called on the Muslim community to reflect deeply on the values of sacrifice, obedience, and faith as they celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.

Reflecting on recent events, the suspended Governor acknowledged the resilience and sacrifices of the people in the face of political instability.

He assured citizens that efforts are ongoing to stabilise governance and rejuvenate the state’s economy, with concrete steps being taken to address their concerns.

Abundant Rains

Also, Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda urged residents to embrace the period of reflection, prayer, and acts of kindness towards one another, highlighting the significance of Eid al-Adha.

The governor offered prayers for abundant rains and a bountiful harvest. He described agriculture as the heartbeat of the state’s economy, urging citizens to take advantage of the government’s farming and business support programmes.

Governor Radda, in a statement signed by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, his Chief Press Secretary, urged citizens to remember those in need, emphasising that “Eid is about sacrifice and kindness.

“This year’s Eid comes at the start of the rainy season — a lifeline for our farmers. I pray for good rains and a rich harvest. Agriculture is the heartbeat of our economy,” he said.

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, appreciated the Muslim community in Oyo State for their support, prayers and sacrifice for the betterment of the state.

“Let me also add that our government, their government, will continue to put the interests of the people of the state first.

“Again, I urge all Muslims and all residents of the state to be watchful and alert during the festivities, as security is a responsibility for everyone. If anyone sees something, they should say something and the government will do something,” he said.