Eid-el-Kabir: Tinubu urges prayers for troops, calls for national unity

President Bola Tinubu, on Friday, called on Nigerians to intensify their prayers for the military and other security agencies, which continue to make immense sacrifices to safeguard the nation, particularly those on the frontlines against terrorism and banditry.

Speaking with journalists after observing the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the Eid Ground in Dodan Barracks, Lagos, the President emphasised the importance of compassion, unity, and selflessness during the sacred season.

“We should remember to pray for and give to those who are most vulnerable, in the spirit of this season of sacrifice. We must unite, be our brothers’ keeper, and support our neighbours. We should show love to everyone,” the President said this according to a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.

“We must also pray fervently for our troops who are keeping us safe. They are making extraordinary sacrifices in the face of the challenges posed by terrorism and banditry. Let us not forget their efforts. As citizens, we must also conduct ourselves responsibly,” he added.

In his sermon, the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Suleiman Abu-Nola, urged the Muslim faithful to emulate Prophet Abraham’s spirit of sacrifice.

The essence of today is sacrifice. We must learn to make sacrifices for our families, communities, and the nation. Our service should be rendered to Allah, not man,” the Chief Imam stated.

He further urged worshippers to live peacefully and extend kindness to the poor and vulnerable.

To achieve the Nigeria of our dreams, we must be willing to make sacrifices. We must rise above tribal sentiments and embrace unity. Whether Igbo, Yoruba, or Hausa, we must live beyond ethnic divisions,” he said.

The President was joined at the Eid ground by the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle; the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; and former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola.

Also in attendance were the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; President of the Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu; Group Chief Executive of Oando, Wale Tinubu; and President Tinubu’s longtime friend and ally, Prof. Shaffideen Amuwo.