President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians to embrace tolerance, generosity, and peaceful coexistence, using the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir to reflect on the values that unite the nation.
Speaking to newsmen on Wednesday after observing the Eid prayers at the Dodan Barracks praying ground in Lagos, the President admonished citizens to reject ethnic divisions, hatred, and any actions that threaten national cohesion.
Lessons of Sacrifice and Tolerance
Reflecting on the spiritual significance of the festival, President Tinubu noted that Eid-el-Kabir serves as a profound reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience, sacrifice, and total submission to the will of Allah.
“We thank Almighty Allah for making us witness another year of Eid-el-Kabir. We must learn from this season’s lessons, namely, showing love to one another. No discrimination, no ethnicity, no hatred; we should share love and be generous to one another in a way that reflects the values of our country and humanity,” the President stated.
He further emphasised that Nigeria’s diversity is its core strength, insisting that no religious, ethnic, or political differences should overshadow the collective pursuit of national peace and progress.
Condemns Banditry
Addressing the nation’s security challenges, President Tinubu strongly condemned acts of violence, stating unequivocally that banditry and disregard for human life violate all sacred teachings.
“Nowhere in the holy teachings does it say you should engage in banditry or take a human life. The sacrifice we speak of teaches us that a child was replaced with an animal. That is the value placed on human life,” he added, urging citizens to protect the vulnerable.
Imam Preaches Fear of God, Unity and Sacrifice
In his Eid sermon, the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Sulaimon Abou-Nolla, echoed the President’s sentiments. He admonished the Muslim faithful to fear Allah, promote unity, generosity, and prioritise selflessness in line with the teachings of the Holy Book.
READ ALSO:
- High Cost of Ram Forces Abuja Families to Cut Back on Eid Celebrations
-
High Cost of Ram Forces Abuja Families to Cut Back on Eid Celebrations
-
Nigerians Mark 2026 Eid Celebration amid Food Price Surge
-
How Unpatriotic Nigerians Exploit Insecurity for Political Gain – Gov. Yusuf
-
Tinubu Warns Nigeria will Spend $11.6bn on Debt Servicing in 2026
The cleric concluded the service with prayers for President Tinubu’s health and wisdom, while paying tribute to the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding leaders who laid the groundwork for a united country.
Joining the president in the prayers were Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, former Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola, the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and other dignitaries.
