President Bola Tinubu and other Nigerian leaders yesterday stressed the need for the nation to reflect on the values of faith, sacrifice, and unity as Muslims across the world celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.

Tinubu described Eid-el-Kabir as the high point of the sacred first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah, which he said provides opportunities for worship and good deeds. He noted that the festival goes beyond celebrations, urging Nigerians to embrace its deeper meaning.

In a statement, the President extended warm congratulations to Muslims in Nigeria and the global Muslim community on the occasion, noting: “To truly honour Eid, we must embody its virtues, just as Prophet Ibrahim exemplified complete submission to Allah’s will, and as our Prophet Muhammad has taught us. Let this sacred occasion renew our commitment to these ideals,” the president said.

Tinubu highlighted the need for resilience, tolerance, compassion, and dedication to Nigeria’s progress, expressing gratitude for the faith and perseverance shown by Nigerians amid ongoing reforms. He assured citizens that the country was approaching a brighter future.

“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,” he stated.

“We are entering a new era of renewed hope and prosperity that we promised two years ago.” The president acknowledged that while the nation has not fully achieved its aspirations, significant progress is being made. He said key economic indicators are moving in a positive direction, and he urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and steadfast.

“Our administration is committed to repairing the foundations of our economy once and for all. The Renewed Hope Agenda remains our blueprint to bring prosperity to every Nigerian,” Tinubu said.

Reflecting on recent tragedies, including the heavy flooding in Mokwa, Niger State, which caused deaths and significant destruction, Tinubu urged Nigerians to pray for the affected families and support recovery efforts.

He also called for prayers for the nation’s frontline officers, leaders, and the country as a whole, emphasising the importance of seeking God’s guidance during these challenging times.

“May the virtues of perseverance, sacrifice, loyalty, faith, and shared humanity bind us closer. Let us care for one another’s well-being during this season and always,” Tinubu added.

The president concluded by praying for peace and blessings for Nigeria, urging those with more to support the less privileged in the spirit of Eid. Similarly, the Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to national development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

In a statement issued yesterday by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Segun Imohiosen, on behalf of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, the government congratulated the Muslim Ummah and all Nigerians on the celebration. It noted that the occasion coincides with the second anniversary of the Tinubu administration.

The statement urged citizens to draw inspiration from the life of Prophet Ibrahim, whose legacy of obedience and devotion continues to guide believers. “This celebration is an opportunity to reflect on the enduring values of peace, unity, compassion, and patriotism,” it stated.

The Federal Government also reaffirmed its dedication to delivering the dividends of democracy through sustained reforms, inclusive economic growth, and improved security and governance. It assured Nigerians that their sacrifices and resilience would lead to tangible benefits as the reforms take effect.

On behalf of the Federal Executive Council, the government extended warm wishes to Nigerians at home and abroad for a peaceful, joyous, and spiritually fulfilling celebration.

Atiku asks leaders to prioritise compassion, calls for peace Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar called on leaders to demonstrate compassion and prioritise the well-being of the people, in alignment with divine guidance.

In a statement issued by his media office, Atiku congratulated Muslims on the Eid-el-Kabir celebration and urged Nigerians, especially Muslims, to embody kindness and peace in their daily lives.

He stated, “The essence of Eid-al-Adha, rooted in the traditions of Prophet Ibrahim and upheld by Prophet Muhammad, calls us to reflect kindness and peace in our lives.”

The Waziri Adamawa encouraged Muslims to extend charity to the less privileged, emphasising that kindness and generosity are integral to the faith. “These are values we must uphold not only during this celebration but at all times,” he noted.

Atiku also urged leaders to embrace the spirit of compassion and sacrifice reflected in the festival, adding, “Leadership demands forbearance and commitment to the greater good. I appeal to those in authority to show compassion and prioritise the welfare of the people, in line with God’s command.”

Concluding his message, Atiku advocated for peace and unity, urging Nigerians to pray for harmony in their homes and society during this sacred time.
Ganduje wants Muslims to embrace selflessness, unity

The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, extended his felicitations to the Muslim Ummah in Nigeria and beyond on the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir.

In a message released by his Chief Press Secretary, Edwin Olofu, Ganduje described Eid-el-Kabir as a significant reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and willingness to submit to the will of Almighty Allah. He urged Muslims to emulate these virtues by embracing selflessness, generosity, and service to humanity.

“As we mark this sacred festival, I call on all Muslims to reflect on the essence of Eid-el-Kabir, which teaches us the importance of sacrifice, obedience to divine command, and the spirit of giving. Let us use this period to show kindness to our neighbours, extend a helping hand to the less privileged, and promote unity and peace in our communities,” Ganduje said.

He also encouraged Nigerians to remain steadfast in prayers for the nation’s peace, stability, and prosperity, especially as the country continues its journey towards economic recovery and development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership.

The APC National Chairman described Eid-el-Kabir as a celebration that exemplifies the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, and compassion. He prayed that Allah accepts the supplications and sacrifices of the faithful and grants everyone a joyous and peaceful celebration.

IGP orders enhanced security for peaceful celebrations
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, directed increased security measures across the country to ensure a peaceful Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

In a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, the IGP instructed Commissioners of Police, Tactical Commanders, and their supervising Assistant Inspectors-General of Police to strengthen security presence at Eid prayer grounds, recreational centres, and other public spaces.

Officers were also tasked with conducting intelligence-led patrols, surveillance operations, and strategic stop-and-search duties to prevent potential security threats during the festive period.

The IGP urged Nigerians to remain law-abiding and to celebrate in an atmosphere of peace, unity, and compassion. Emphasising the spiritual significance of the month of Dhul-Hijjah, he encouraged citizens to reflect, give thanks to God, and extend support to the less privileged.

“The Inspector-General of Police reiterates the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to upholding public safety, fostering unity, and maintaining law and order across the nation,” Adejobi stated.

Egbetokun further called on the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or individuals to security agencies, noting that public safety is a shared responsibility.

He extended warm greetings to the Muslim Ummah, urging them to embrace the values of tolerance, compassion, and national unity as exemplified by the teachings of Islam’s prophets.

Sanwo-Olu tasks Muslims on spirituality, peaceful coexistence
Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, extended his felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria, particularly in Lagos, as they celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.

In a message issued yesterday, Sanwo-Olu urged Lagos residents and Nigerians, especially Muslim faithful, to continue on the path of spirituality and peaceful coexistence.

He encouraged Muslims to imbibe the lessons of sacrifice exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim and work towards the unity, peace, and progress of Lagos State and Nigeria.

“On behalf of my family and the Government of Lagos State, I wish all our Muslim brothers and sisters in the State and in Nigeria a happy and peaceful Eid-el-Kabir celebration,” he said.

Sanwo-Olu described Eid-al-Adha as a significant event in the history of mankind, particularly for Muslims, highlighting the rewards that followed Prophet Ibrahim’s patience and unwavering faith in God during trials.

He noted, “This symbolic Islamic celebration is a reminder to us that there will always be great rewards when we have abiding faith and patience in trying periods; persistence in prayers and tenacity in our beliefs.”

The governor appealed to Lagosians to emulate the examples of Prophet Ibrahim by avoiding actions that could hinder the growth, development, peace, and stability of Lagos State and the nation.

“As we celebrate this year’s Eid-al-Adha, I implore all Lagosians and Nigerians, particularly the Islamic faithful, to continue on the path of spirituality and peaceful coexistence and imbibe the lessons of the sacrifice made by Holy Prophet Ibrahim,” Sanwo-Olu added.

Abiodun, Adeola extend greetings with emphasis on sacrifice, compassion
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, extended warm greetings to the Muslim community in celebration of this year’s Eid-el-Kabir.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, Abiodun highlighted the festival’s significance, commemorating Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. He encouraged Muslim faithful to embrace the teachings of Islam, particularly the values of selflessness and compassion.

“On this special occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all Muslims as we observe Eid-el-Adha. This celebration is not only a time for joy and festivity but also a moment for reflection on the values of sacrifice, love, and generosity,” Abiodun said.
Meanwhile, Senator Solomon Adeola, representing Ogun West Senatorial District in the Senate, also felicitated with Muslims ahead of the festival, continuing his tradition of distributing gifts and cash to his constituents and others to mark the occasion.
In a statement by his media adviser, Chief Kayode Odunaro, released in Abeokuta yesterday, Adeola announced the distribution of 9,000 bags of 50-kilogramme rice, 40 cows, 250 rams, and various sums of money through cash transfers. The items were given to traditional rulers, community leaders, Islamic clerics, political party leaders, and other constituents across Ogun West and beyond to ensure a memorable celebration.

Youth forum raises concern over economic hardship, calls for accountability
As Nigerians celebrate Eid-el-Kabir, the Unified Nigeria Youth Forum (UNYF) expressed concern about the rising economic hardship in the country and called on political leaders to prioritise governance over preparations for the 2027 general elections.

In a statement yesterday, the forum’s President, Comrade Toriah Olajide Filani, extended warm Sallah greetings to Muslim faithful, praying for peace, unity, and prosperity for the nation. He urged Nigerians to reflect on the values of sacrifice, compassion, and community support that the festival represents.

Filani lamented the prevailing economic challenges, noting that many citizens are unable to celebrate Sallah with dignity due to worsening living conditions. He criticised the increasing poverty and dependence on alms during such an important religious festival, describing it as evidence of governance failure at all levels.

“It is disturbing that despite the doubling of FAAC allocations, the suffering of the people continues without relief. The government must explain why there is no visible improvement in citizens’ welfare,” he said.

He called on Nigerian youths, who make up over 70 per cent of the voting population, to demand accountability from their leaders beyond election periods. He warned that political leaders should focus on addressing pressing issues such as hunger, poverty, unemployment, health crises, insecurity, and the growing number of out-of-school children.

“The least our leaders should be thinking about is how to retain power in the next election. Their energy should be channelled toward solving the problems that threaten our national stability and the dignity of our people,” Filani emphasised.

The forum urged other youth organisations to unite in holding leaders accountable, regardless of religion or political affiliation, and reminded public office holders of their eventual accountability before God.

“Leadership should not be a means to enrich oneself. It is a sacred duty to serve humanity with sincerity and humility. We must build a culture of accountability and selfless service,” the statement added.

The group further encouraged youths to engage constructively and consistently in governance matters, noting that now is the time for action, not just during political campaigns.