By Barth Ikiebe.
President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to offer fervent prayers for the nation’s military and security agencies, especially those on the frontline battling terrorists and bandits.
Speaking to journalists after observing the Eid-al-Adha prayers at the Eid Ground within Dodan Barracks, Lagos, the President emphasized the need to remember both security personnel and vulnerable citizens during the season of sacrifice.
“In the spirit of Eid, we must remember to pray and give to the vulnerable. We must remain united, be our brother’s keeper, and extend love to our neighbors.Above all, we must pray for our troops who are making daily sacrifices to keep us safe in the face of terrorism and banditry. Their commitment deserves our prayers and support,”Tinubu said.
The Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Suleiman Oluwatoyin Abu-Nola, who led the prayers, urged Muslims to reflect on the significance of sacrifice, drawing from the example of Prophet Abraham.
“The essence of today is sacrifice. We must be ready to sacrifice for our families, our communities, and our nation. “Let us serve Allah sincerely and live peacefully with our neighbors. Tribal and ethnic sentiments should not divide us if we truly want to see a better Nigeria,”he urged
The Chief Imam also emphasized compassion for the less privileged, calling on worshipers to support the poor and uphold unity, regardless of ethnic background.
Our correspondent reports that President Tinubu was joined at the prayer ground by top government officials and dignitaries, including the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; that of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle; and Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Femi Hamzat.
Also in attendance were former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola; National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mudashiru Obasa; President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu; Group Chief Executive of Oando, Wale Tinubu; and the President’s close associate, Prof. Shaffideen Amuwo.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
