President Tinubu Champions Peace and Collective Security at Eid-el-Fitr Observance
In a powerful display of national unity, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima led calls for peace, security, and collective responsibility during Eid-el-Fitr celebrations across Nigeria on Friday. The President, fresh from a state visit to the United Kingdom, immediately shifted focus to domestic engagements, observing prayers at the Dodan Barracks Eid Ground in Lagos.
Tinubu's Message of Unity and Shared Responsibility
Speaking to journalists after the prayers, President Tinubu emphasized that peaceful coexistence remains the bedrock of national progress. He stressed that security and stability must be a shared commitment among all citizens, urging Nigerians to embrace unity and collective responsibility as essential pillars for development.
"The stability, peace, and security of the nation is not just one man's responsibility. We are all involved. Report suspicious movements of people across the length and breadth of the country. These are our responsibilities too," Tinubu declared in his Eid-el-Fitr message signed by Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga.
The President highlighted the importance of sustaining the spiritual lessons learned during Ramadan, particularly charity, kindness, and compassion for vulnerable members of society. He urged Nigerians not to abandon these virtues with the end of the fasting period.
Spiritual Foundation and National Building
Tinubu further emphasized the shared spiritual foundation across religions in Nigeria, noting that worship of one God should inspire unity rather than division despite differences in modes of worship. According to him, nation-building must be anchored on inclusivity, mutual respect, and appreciation of the country's rich diversity.
The President described his recent state visit to the UK as "very thrilling and significant," saying the reception by King Charles III and Queen Camilla symbolized Nigeria's growing stature in the global community. "Our visit was a very big opportunity for us to be a good example of the diversity in our society, being able to accept one another as our brothers' keepers. Tolerance among all faiths!" Tinubu emphasized.
Shettima's Commitment to Tackling Insecurity in Borno
In Maiduguri, Borno State, Vice President Kashim Shettima joined thousands of Muslim faithful at Ramat Square for Eid-el-Fitr prayers, using the occasion to reaffirm the Federal Government's commitment to addressing insecurity and other national challenges. The expansive prayer ground was filled to capacity as worshippers gathered in a strong display of faith, unity, and resilience.
Addressing journalists after the prayers, Shettima expressed optimism that ongoing security efforts by both federal and state authorities would soon yield more tangible results across the country. He stressed that sustainable development cannot be achieved without peace, urging Nigerians to close ranks in confronting shared challenges such as insecurity and socio-economic hardship.
Religious Leaders Echo Calls for Peace and Discipline
In Lagos, the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos State, Alhaji Sulaiman Oluwatoyin Abou-Nolla, called on Muslims to uphold the virtues of piety, discipline, and peaceful coexistence cultivated during Ramadan. He warned against actions that could inflame tensions in an increasingly uncertain global climate.
"Today, we are witnessing a world unsettled by tensions and fear. Nations are on edge, and economies are fragile. For Nigerians, especially the good citizens of this great nation, this is a time for calmness, not chaos—a time for wisdom, not provocation," the cleric emphasized during his sermon.
In Borno State, Chief Imam Shettima Mamman Saleh led the Eid prayers attended by Governor Babagana Zulum, Senator Ali Ndume, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, and other prominent indigenes. He urged Muslims to embrace compassion, piety, and social responsibility as enduring values necessary for fostering harmony and building a more cohesive society.
High-Profile Attendance and National Significance
The President was accompanied to the Eid ground by National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, as well as associates and family members. This high-level participation underscored the national importance of the occasion.
Vice President Shettima commended the people and leadership of Borno State for their enduring resilience and steadfast pursuit of peace and stability despite years of insurgency. He noted that the rare convergence of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season presented a unique opportunity for reflection, tolerance, and renewed commitment to nation-building.
The Eid-el-Fitr celebrations served as a powerful reminder that Nigeria's strength lies in its diversity and collective commitment to peace, security, and national development. Both Tinubu and Shettima's messages emphasized that these values must extend beyond the festive season and become integral to everyday Nigerian life.
