President Bola Tinubu emphasized the importance of Nigerians making sacrifices for the progress and stability of the country during the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations. Tinubu, along with other Nigerian Muslims, participated in the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the Dodan Barracks Praying Ground in Lagos. He was accompanied by prominent figures such as Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, Babatunde Fashola, a former Lagos State Governor, and other government officials.
After the Eid prayers, Tinubu expressed his views in an interview, calling upon both leaders and citizens to adopt attitudes and behaviors that would contribute to the nation's advancement. He stressed the need for a deliberate commitment from both the leadership and the people. Tinubu further mentioned that sacrifices are necessary, and expressed his belief that Allah will not burden individuals with challenges they cannot handle, assuring that He is there to support them. He encouraged citizens to have faith in the country and in themselves, transcending religious and tribal sentiments, and striving to live harmoniously and prosperously together.
During the festivities, Sheikh Suleiman Abu-Nolah, the Chief Imam of Lagos, delivered a sermon highlighting the values of sacrifice, unity, and tolerance within the Muslim community. He emphasized that the religion does not endorse selfishness, intolerance, or sectionalism, and encouraged reflection on the challenges facing the country while seeking divine intervention through prayer.
The Chief Imam prayed for the continued peace, progress, and stability of Nigeria, urging all Nigerians to embody the values of Prophet Ibrahim. Femi Hamzat, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, echoed the call for prayer and sacrifice for the wellbeing of the nation, emphasizing that it is the duty of citizens to contribute to the greatness of the country through their love and devotion.
In his speech, Femi Gbajabiamila highlighted the president's commitment to implementing people-oriented policies and assured Nigerians of the president's determination to fulfill the dreams of the country's founding fathers. He requested prayers and support from Nigerians as the president carries out his responsibilities, acknowledging the weighty tasks ahead but expressing confidence that with the collective prayers and support of the nation, the president will overcome them.
Thus, the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir served as a reminder to Nigerians of the importance of sacrifice, unity, and prayer in building a peaceful and prosperous nation.
