President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria has emphasized the need for national sacrifice and unity to fulfill the dreams of Nigeria’s founding fathers while addressing newsmen after the Eid-el-Adha prayers at Dodan Barracks in Lagos on Sunday, July 16, 2024.
Speaking on the significance of the day, President Tinubu urged Nigerians to embody the spirit of sacrifice to achieve greatness for the nation. “Being a very good citizen comes with responsibility,” Tinubu stated. “As citizens, what do you do to be a very committed member of our society? Go and sacrifice. Love your country, love your neighbours, share what you have with one another and be thankful to Almighty God. That’s all.”
The President’s remarks were echoed by Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State, who addressed the worshippers, stressing the importance of perseverance and patience. “I urge you all to live in peace and harmony. Be patient and persevere in order to enjoy the good of the land,” Hamzat said. He called on Nigerians to maintain peace and do what is right for their communities.
Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Suleiman Abou-Nolla, delivered the Eid-el-Adha message, citing the Qur’an and urging believers to fear God and live in total submission to Allah. Referencing historical Nigerian leaders, Abou-Nolla highlighted their sacrifices for the nation’s growth and development. “All their activities and actions were passionate and geared toward nation-building; we must, therefore, ensure that their labor and struggles are not in vain,” he said.
The Imam also condemned acts of tribalism, terrorism, and hatred, advocating instead for unity, compassion, and justice. “As we celebrate Eid-el-Adha, let us shun all acts of indiscipline, hate speech, and violence to ensure peaceful co-existence and progress of our nation Nigeria,” he added.
Prayers were offered for President Tinubu, seeking divine guidance, wisdom, and strength for his leadership. “Surround him (Tinubu) with sound and wise counsel to navigate our country through all the challenges we are currently facing,” Abou-Nolla prayed.
The gathering also saw several dignitaries in attendance, including Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Principal Private Secretary Hakeem Muri-Okunola, former Minister of Works and Housing Babatunde Fashola, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly Mudashiru Obasa, and Senator Gbenga Ashafa.
