Nigerian Muslims have joined their counterparts worldwide to celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir, also known as the festival of sacrifice, the second of two great Muslim festivals.
For many Muslims, Eid-el-Kabir marks the culmination of the hajj and is celebrated by Muslims throughout the world.
It is also to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to a command from God.
The period is observed with Eid prayers, charity, social gatherings, festive meals, gift sharing and so much more.
Tinubu Calls For Sacrifice
In his Eid message, President Bola Tinubu urged Nigerians to reflect on the essence of the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir, which bears strong meaning and significance for the nation.
Tinubu stressed that sacrifice and duty are essential ingredients to nation-building, noting that it takes collective purpose, will, and action to bring about great change.
He wants the citizens on citizens to spare a prayer for the nation for continuous peace and stability while working according to purpose in promoting unity, peace, and progress.
“The President acknowledges the sacrifices that Nigerians have made in the past year as his administration sets the nation on a firm pedestal of growth and development,” a Saturday statement by presidential spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale, read.
“President Tinubu affirms that the sacrifices and great expectations of citizens will not come to nought as already propitious outcomes are beginning to manifest with the economy strengthening and vibrancy returning to critical sectors.
While congratulating the Muslim faithful and praying that Allah accepts their supplications and acts of obedience, the President reassured Nigerians that his administration is prioritizing their physical, social, and economic security and will not relent on this noble endeavour.
Govs Extol Nigerians
Nigerian governors also congratulated their respective citizens as they celebrate Eid-el-Adha, widely regarded as the feast of sacrifice by adherents of Islam.
prosperity in Nigeria and Oyo state.
“As I have always said, our administration appreciates the support and prayers of the Muslim Ummah over the last five years,” Makinde was quoted in a statement by his spokesman, Moses Alao.
“But, we desire more support and prayers because the times we are in demand that we give more; more sacrifice, more prayers and more patriotism to our state and country.
“It is my prayer that Allah will accept our worship and reward our efforts,” Mr Makinde stated.
On his part, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa felicitated the Muslim community in Ondo State as they celebrated this year’s eid-el-kabir.
The governor, in his Sallah message, prayed that this year’s celebration would bring blessings, peace and prosperity to all Muslim faithful in the state.
While assuring the Muslim faithful of the fulfilment of promises made by his administration on inclusive governance, the governor urges them to continue to give the government the necessary support.
In Ebonyi, the state governor, Francis Nwifuru, urged the Muslim faithful to maximise the Sallah period and pray for peace, progress, unity and development of Nigeria.
Governor Nwifuru prayed for Allah’s blessings to fill their lives and usher them into an era of prosperity even as he wished them a long life.
He said every security arrangement has been perfected to ensure a hitch-free Sallah celebration.
To far-away North, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, admonishes Muslims on the imperative and value of devotion, patience, and perseverance.
He reminded Muslims of the significance and values of Eid Kabir which is anchored on selflessness, love and compassion, urging them to use the occasion to show love and care to their families, and neighbours.
He also asked them to continue to pray earnestly for the peace and progress of Kaduna State and the country in general, saying the measures being put in place to actualise his sustained agenda in the state require the collective sacrifice and perseverance in bearing the pain therefrom.
For Adamawa Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, despite the economic hardship Nigerians are going through, there will be light at the end of the tunnel.
He enjoined Nigerians to make good use of their diversity and have faith that they will soon overcome the current harsh economic challenges.
“Let us draw strength from our diversity and our shared humanity. Let us work together to build a brighter future for all,” Fintiri said in a Salah message by his Chief Press Secretary, Humhashi Wonosikou.
