TINUBU URGES PRAYERS FOR TROOPS, UNITY AMONG NIGERIANS DURING EID-AL-ADHA CELEBRATION

President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to offer special prayers for the nation’s military and security forces, particularly those confronting terrorism and banditry, during the Eid-al-Adha festivities. The President emphasized the need for national unity, compassion, and sacrifice as central themes of the celebration.

Speaking to journalists after observing the Eid prayers at the Eid Ground in Dodan Barracks, Lagos, President Tinubu urged citizens to remember the sacrifices being made by Nigeria’s armed forces to protect lives and ensure national security.

“We must pray hard for our troops to keep us safe,” the President said. “They are making sacrifices in the challenges that we face from terrorism and banditry today. We must pray for them specifically, remember their sacrifices, and continue to behave well as citizens.”

He also encouraged Nigerians to care for the vulnerable and extend love to neighbours in the spirit of the season.

“We should remember to pray and give to those who are very vulnerable. We must unite, remain our brothers’ keeper, and show love to everyone,” he added.

Delivering the Eid sermon, the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Suleiman Oluwatoyin Abu-Nola, echoed the President’s message, urging Muslims to embrace the true meaning of sacrifice as exemplified by Prophet Abraham.

“The whole essence of today is sacrifice. We must learn to make sacrifices for our family, nation, and community. We must render our service to Allah, not men,” the Chief Imam said.

He also stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence and national unity.

“If we are to see the Nigeria of our dreams, we must be ready to make sacrifices. Whether you are Igbo, Yoruba, or Hausa, we must live above ethnic sentiments,” he urged.

The Eid prayer was attended by top government officials and business leaders, including Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, Minister of State for Defence Bello Muhammed Matawalle, Lagos Deputy Governor Femi Hamzat, and former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola.

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