By Stephen Gbadamosi, Ibadan
Yet again, President Bola Tinubu has declared that his administration will see the end of insurgency and insecurity in the country.
He said this in a statement on Tuesday while extending felicitations to Muslim brothers and sisters across Nigeria and worldwide as they celebrate Eid-el-Kabir (Eid Al-Adha), the Festival of Sacrifice.
“We give glory to Almighty God for preserving our lives to witness this important celebration once again.
”Eid-el-Kabir reminds us of the enduring virtues exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim—faith, obedience, and the willingness to sacrifice for a higher purpose.
“This sacred festival calls on all Muslims, and indeed all Nigerians and the whole of humanity, to embrace sacrifice, selflessness, unity, and compassion for our fellow human beings.
“One central lesson of Eid-el-Kabir is the call to show mercy and compassion, regardless of race, ethnicity, or creed. There is no greater example of duty and devotion than Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to offer his only son, Ismail, as a sacrifice to Allah.
“As a nation, we are on a journey of reconstruction and renewal. The reforms we have undertaken are challenging but necessary to build a stronger and more prosperous Nigeria for future generations.
“Just as sacrifice brings reward, I am happy that the sacrifices and efforts we have made over the past three years have yielded a more stable economy, making our country a preferred investment destination that will drive job creation and economic growth. The walk through the dark tunnel is over, and the light is here.
“I am confident that, by the Grace of God, the reforms we have diligently pursued will continue to yield improved security and greater opportunities for all.
“I am aware that, despite the best efforts of our security and intelligence agencies—including the recent elimination of a wanted ISIS leader—heartless terrorists and bandits still attack some communities. I assure you: you are neither abandoned nor forgotten. We will ultimately defeat all the forces of evil.
“To our Muslim faithful, I urge you to use this sacred occasion to pray for our country, for peace in our communities, and for wisdom for those in leadership.
“Let us pray that those who commit crimes among us may rethink and abandon their evil ways, or face the full weight of the law.
“Let us also reach out to the less privileged, share with our neighbours, and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood that unite us as one people.
“My administration remains committed to building a Nigeria where all citizens can live in peace, worship freely, and pursue their dreams without fear.
“We will continue to invest in security, infrastructure, agriculture, and human capital to fulfil the great promise of our great nation.
“On behalf of the government, I wish you all a peaceful, joyous, and blessed Eid al-Kabir. May Allah accept our sacrifices and prayers, and may He continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Eid Mubarak! Happy Sallah!,” President Tinubu said in the statement he personally signed.
Akpabio Calls For Sacrifice, Unity, National Renewal
President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, felicitated PresidentTinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima; and all Muslim faithful in Nigeria and around the world as they celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.
In a congratulatory message through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Hon. Eseme Eyiboh, the Senate President said the occasion called for prayer and sober reflection on the theme of sacrifice.
“This sacred occasion reminds us of Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith, obedience, and willingness to sacrifice for the sake of Almighty Allah.
“These timeless virtues of devotion, selflessness, and submission to divine will are values our nation desperately needs today,” he stated.
Akpabio added: “May the lessons of sacrifice, compassion, and generosity that define this season strengthen your faith and bring peace to your homes.
“As you share with the less privileged and extend love to neighbours of all faiths, you embody the true spirit of Nigeria.
“To all Nigerians, I urge us to use this solemn period to pray fervently for peace, security, and prosperity in our land. Let us pray for our troops in the frontlines, for farmers to return safely to their fields, and for unity to prevail over division in our Nation.
“Eid-el-Kabir also calls us to deep reflection on the future of our country. Just as Prophet Ibrahim was tested, Nigeria is in a season of testing.
“The sacrifices we make today in patience, in tolerance and in choosing hope over despair will determine the Nigeria our children inherit.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda of this administration, supported by the National Assembly, is anchored on that same principle: that meaningful progress often requires collective sacrifice.
“May Almighty Allah accept your prayers and sacrifices. May He heal our land, guide our leaders, and bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Barka da Sallah. Eid Mubarak.”
Mind What You Eat, Drink -Oba Ladoja Charges Muslims At Eid Al-Adha
Olubadan of Ibadan, His Imperial Majesty Oba (Dr.) Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa1), has warned Nigerians to be mindfuel of what they consume, as insecurity ravages the country.
He said this as he congratulated and rejoiced with Muslims all over the world on the celebration of Eid-El-Kabir.
He forwarded the congratulatory message in a statement by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Olubadan, Chief Olugbemiga Ayoade, on Tuesday.
“I wholeheartedly rejoice with the Muslim faithful in Ibadanland and globally on the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir.
“On this memorable occasion, I express unalloyed gratitude to Almighty Allah for sparing our lives to witness and participate in this year’s celebration of Eid-el-Kabir.
“The celebration should not be limited to wineing and dining alone, but also to reflect our ways of life and retrace our steps where necessary and follow Allah’s injunctions of peaceful co-existence, love, compassion, faith and sacrifice to God and humanity.
“Nigeria, as a nation, is faced with security challenges; we should be mindful of our movement, the company we keep and what we eat and drink,” he stated.
The First-Class Oba and Chairman of Oyo State Traditional Council of Obas and Chiefs reminded all and sundry to pray for the nation’s political leaders, traditional rulers, Oyo State and Nigeria for God to hear our supplications, “redeem us and restore our lost glory.”
The monarch prayed for all “irrespective of our religious affiliations that Allah, in His mercy, will continue to uphold, protect and be merciful to us all and to spare our lives to celebrate more Eid-el-Kabir in the land of living.”
