President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians to offer special prayers for the country’s armed forces and security agencies, especially those battling terrorism and banditry across the country.
Speaking to journalists after observing the Eid al-Adha prayers at the Eid Ground in Dodan Barracks, Lagos, on Friday, the President emphasized the need for national unity, compassion, and collective sacrifice during this sacred period.
“We must remember our troops in prayers. They are making huge sacrifices to keep us safe,” President Tinubu said.
“Let us be our brothers’ keeper, support the vulnerable, and show love to one another in the spirit of the season.”
Reiterating the significance of Eid al-Adha, President Tinubu called on citizens to emulate the values of sacrifice, peace, and generosity. He stressed the need to “pray hard” and “continue to behave well as citizens,” especially in the face of persistent security and economic challenges.
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Leading the Eid prayers, the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Suleiman Oluwatoyin Abu-Nola, called on Nigerians to live above tribal and ethnic sentiments, stressing that sacrifice for the greater good is the core message of the season.
“If we want to see the Nigeria of our dreams, we must make sacrifices for our nation, our families, and our communities. Whether Igbo, Yoruba, or Hausa, we must live in peace and unity,” the Imam charged.
Several high-profile figures joined the President at the prayer ground, including 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 Femi Hamzat, and former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola.
Others present included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly Mudashiru Obasa, industrialists Aliko Dangote and Abdul Samad Rabiu, Oando Group Chief Executive Wale Tinubu, and Professor Shaffideen Amuwo, a longtime ally of the President.
The Eid gathering at Dodan Barracks reflected a rare moment of religious observance, political unity, and calls for national healing amid ongoing economic and security challenges.