President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians to offer fervent prayers for the nation’s armed forces and security agencies as they continue to combat terrorism and banditry across the country.
The President made this call on Friday shortly after observing the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the Eid Ground located within Dodan Barracks, Lagos.
Speaking to reporters, President Tinubu emphasized the need for unity, compassion, and national responsibility during the sacred festival of Eid-el-Kabir.
“In this season of sacrifice, we must remember to support those who are most vulnerable. Let us also remember our brave men and women on the frontlines, protecting us from threats to our peace and stability,” he said, according to a statement by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.
“They are making extraordinary sacrifices daily. As citizens, it is our duty to support them through prayers and responsible conduct,” the President added.
The Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Suleiman Abu-Nola, who led the Eid prayers, also delivered a powerful message of unity and sacrifice. He encouraged worshippers to emulate the selflessness of Prophet Ibrahim and serve both God and humanity.
“The essence of today is sacrifice. We must make sacrifices for our families, our communities, and the nation,” the Imam said. “We should rise above ethnic and religious divisions and live in harmony. Unity is the key to a greater Nigeria.”
The prayer gathering was attended by top government officials and dignitaries, including the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle; Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; and former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola.
Others in attendance were the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; business magnates Alhaji Aliko Dangote and Abdul Samad Rabiu; Oando Group CEO, Wale Tinubu; and Professor Shaffideen Amuwo, a longtime friend and ally of President Tinubu.
Eid-el-Kabir, one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar, commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. It is marked by prayers, acts of charity, and symbolic animal sacrifice.
