Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, some governors and the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, have urged Nigerians to embrace sacrifice, unity, charity and national renewal as Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Kabir.
In their separate Sallah messages, the leaders said the celebration should remind Nigerians of the virtues of faith, obedience, compassion and service to humanity.
They also called for prayers for peace, security and prosperity in the country, especially as Nigeria continues to confront economic and security challenges.
In his congratulatory message to Muslim faithful, Akpabio said Eid-el-Kabir was a period for sober reflection and renewed commitment to the values of sacrifice.
The message was contained in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh.
Akpabio said the occasion reminded Muslims and all Nigerians of Prophet Ibrahim’s faith and willingness to submit to the will of Almighty Allah.
He said, “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.
“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.”
Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, also congratulated Muslims on the celebration and called for sustained prayers for the country.
In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ismail Mudashir, Barau urged Nigerians to use the occasion to promote unity, peace and progress.
Naijaonpoint reports that the senator, who represents Kano North, also called for support for the poor and vulnerable members of society.
He said, “I wish Muslims and, indeed, all Nigerians, a peaceful and memorable Eid-El-Kabir. This season reminds us of total submission to the will of Allah, as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim. True believers must uphold the values of sacrifice, obedience, tolerance, justice and charity.”
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, in his message, urged Muslims to renew their commitment to charity, especially towards the poor, needy and less privileged.
The message was contained in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Abdullahi Krishi.
Abbas said Eid-el-Kabir symbolised total submission to the will of Allah as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim.
He said the celebration offered several lessons, including faith in Allah, obedience and respect for constituted authorities.
According to him, “This period calls for a deep reflection.”
The Speaker urged Nigerians to remain selfless and to dedicate their lives, time and resources to the worship of Allah and service to humanity.
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, and Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, also called for peace, unity and peaceful coexistence in their Eid-el-Kabir messages.
They urged Nigerians to uphold the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, love and compassion as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.
Okpebholo, in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr Patrick Ebojele, described the celebration as a significant period for “reflection, devotion and commitment to the will of Almighty Allah.”
He said the lessons of the festival should inspire citizens to work together for the peace, unity and development of Edo State and Nigeria.
The governor commended Muslim faithful in Edo State for their prayers, support and contributions to the growth and stability of the state.
