Deji Elumoye in Abuja 

As Nigerian Muslim Ummahs joined their counterparts worldwide to celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir yesterday, prominent national figures, including business moguls, Aliko Dangote and Abdulsamad Rabiu, Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, and Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, canvassed unity among citizens urging Nigerians to remain steadfast in prayer and patient with the government’s ongoing national transformation.

They all specifically underscored a shared vision: national unity, economic revival, and lasting peace during separate interviews with newsmen after paying Sallah homage to President Bola Tinubu at his Ikoyi, Lagos residence.

Speaking at the President’s residence after Eid prayers in Lagos, Africa’s richest man and renowned industrialist, Alhaji Dangote expressed strong optimism about Nigeria’s economic direction under the current administration.

According to him, “The next two years will be much better. All the reforms, subsidy removal, exchange rate unification, gas and tax policies, will start yielding fruits as we go along.”

He acknowledged the public’s impatience but urged continued faith in the government’s plan, emphasising that prosperity hinges on economic empowerment through private sector growth.

“What we need is for people to earn decent incomes. That’s the key to fighting insecurity and driving progress,” Dangote stated.

Also speaking, Chairman of Group, Rabiu commended Tinubu for initiating bold economic reforms aimed at long-term recovery.

He noted that “these were tough but necessary decisions, “citing the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market.” 

Rabiu said indicators like the strengthened naira and major infrastructure investments show that the economy is on the mend.

“We’re seeing meaningful reinvestment in roads, ports, and healthcare. It’s slow, but the signs are positive”.

He urged Nigerians to be patient, cooperative, and hopeful adding that “this country belongs to all of us and government alone cannot do it.”

On his part, Defence Minister, Abubakar, acknowledged improvements in national security and urged Nigerians to maintain their faith in the administration’s commitment to peace.

According to him, “There were times major roads like Abuja–Kaduna were death traps. Today, movement is safer, and kidnappings have declined.”

The minister credited intelligence-led operations and local engagement as key to the gains made.

He admitted that some challenges remain but reaffirmed that the Defence Ministry is relentless in its operations. 

“Let’s all keep the faith. With unity and continued prayers, we will overcome,” Badaru further said.

Also speaking, Governor Mutfwang commended Tinubu for prioritising infrastructure in the North-central, particularly the Akwanga–Jos–Bauchi–Gombe Road and a newly inaugurated bridge in Plateau.

Commenting on insecurity in Plateau and Benue states, Mutfwang described the development as a long-standing issue requiring both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches. 

He said, “We’re in regular consultation with the President. Security is dynamic, and we must remain adaptable.”

Mutfwang, in canvassing for unity, stressed that national development is only possible when Nigerians rise above ethnic and religious divisions. 

“Occasions like this remind us we’re one people. Only through solidarity can we truly progress,” the governor submitted.