Eid-el-Fitr Celebrations and Messages

Across Nigeria and beyond, Muslim communities commemorated Eid-el-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan with prayers, charity, and communal unity. However, the celebrations were not without complexities, as highlighted by varying observances and security concerns.
In Kenya, the crescent moon signaled the end of Ramadan, leading to widespread celebrations. In Nairobi, worshippers gathered at Sir Ali Masjid grounds and Jamia Mosque, joined by notable figures such as Kamukunji Member of Parliament Yusuf Hassan, Somalia’s Ambassador to Kenya Jabril Ibrahim Abdulle, and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja at Business Bay Square Mall in Eastleigh. Coastal Mombasa saw large crowds at Tononoka Grounds, led by Cabinet Secretary for Mining, Blue Economy, and Maritime Affairs Hassan Joho and Mombasa County Speaker Aharub Khatri. Other gatherings occurred at Masjid Yusuf Grounds in Migadini and other locations.
MP Yusuf Hassan emphasized the significance of Eid as a time for reflection, unity, and peace.
However, in Egbaland, Ogun State, Nigeria, Eid-el-Fitr was not marked on Sunday, differing from the directive issued by the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) President-General and Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III. The Sultan's directive followed Saudi Arabia's announcement of the Shawwal moon sighting. Despite this, Lantoro eid praying ground in Abeokuta remained deserted, leaving many Muslim faithful stranded. Egba Muslim leaders reportedly fixed the Eid prayer for Monday, leading to frustration among adherents like Adeyemi Adams, who criticized the lack of unity among Muslim leaders. Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Engr Noimot Salako-Oyedele, joined Muslims in Ota, urging them to continue the virtues learned during Ramadan, while the Olota of Ota, Oba (Prof.) Abdulkabir Obalanlege, encouraged Muslims to shun social vices.
President Bola Tinubu observed Eid-el-Fitr prayers at the National Eid Prayer Ground in Abuja, joined by Vice President Kashim Shettima and other top officials. He later hosted an Eid-el-Fitr homage at the State House. Tinubu emphasized unity, sacrifice, and gratitude.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) extended felicitations to Muslims but acknowledged the prevailing insecurity and economic hardships. CAN called for a thorough investigation into the killing of sixteen hunters in Uromi, Edo State. CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, highlighted the shared values between Christians and Muslims and urged unity for peace and security.
President Tinubu hosted the FCT minister, Nyesom Wike, and his delegation for the Eid-El-Fitr homage. The meeting included prayers by Dr. Timothy Amazon and Prof. SAS Galadanci. Wike presented Eid-el-Fitr congratulatory cards to President Tinubu. Amidst rumors of Wike’s collapse, his aide dismissed the claims, asserting that Wike was inspecting projects in the FCT. Wike also donated 10,000 bags of rice to FCT residents.
Cristiano Ronaldo sent a special Eid Mubarak message to Muslims, prompting reactions from fans curious about his religious affiliation. Ronaldo, raised in a Catholic family, has often shown respect for Islam.
Various state leaders also extended greetings. Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri called for love and sacrifice, while Inspector-General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun assured heightened security. Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo preached unity and tolerance. NAHCON Chairman Prof. Abdullahi Saleh Usman sought support for the 2025 Hajj pilgrimage.
The Kogi State Police Commissioner, Mr. Miller Dantawaye, ordered a watertight security across the state to ensure a hitch-free Eid-el-Fitr celebration.
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, encouraged Nigerians to confront economic and financial crimes, urging them to embrace the lessons of Ramadan.
Northern CAN expressed grief over the killing of 16 travelers in Uromi, calling for justice and urging peace amid rising tensions.
These diverse events and messages encapsulate the multifaceted nature of Eid-el-Fitr celebrations in Nigeria, marked by faith, unity, challenges, and calls for peace and justice.