President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians to offer special prayers for the nation’s military and security agencies who continue to make immense sacrifices to safeguard lives and maintain national security, especially in the fight against terrorism and banditry.
Speaking to reporters after observing the Eid-al-Adha prayers on Sunday at the Eid Ground in Dodan Barracks, Lagos, the President emphasised the importance of unity, compassion, and patriotism during the festive season.
“We should remember to pray and give to those who are very vulnerable in the spirit of the season, which is sacrifice,” President Tinubu said. “We must unite, remain our brothers’ keeper, and give to our neighbours. We should show love to everyone.”
He added: “We must also pray hard for our troops to keep us safe. They are making sacrifices in the challenges we face from terrorism and banditry. We must remember their efforts and continue to behave well as citizens.”
Also Read: Statement by President Tinubu on the Occasion of Eid-el-Kabir 2025
Delivering the sermon, the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Suleiman Oluwatoyin Abu-Nola, urged Muslims to reflect on the spirit of sacrifice exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim, calling on the faithful to contribute selflessly to their families, communities and the nation at large.
“The whole essence of today is sacrifice,” he said. “We must render our service to Allah, not men. Whether you are Yoruba, Igbo or Hausa, we must rise above ethnic sentiments and unite as Nigerians to make progress.”
He further encouraged worshippers to live peacefully, care for their neighbours, and support the poor and vulnerable.
Dignitaries at the Eid ground included Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle; Deputy Governor of Lagos, Femi Hamzat; and former Lagos Governor, Babatunde Fashola.
Also present were 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 Professor Shaffideen Amuwo, a close friend and longtime ally of the President.
