President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday joined Muslim faithful at the Dodan Barracks prayer ground in Lagos State to observe the Eid-el-Kabir prayers.
The president was accompanied by several high-ranking government officials and dignitaries, including his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Minister of Defence, Muhammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle.
Also present at the prayer ground were former Minister of Power and ex-Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola (SAN); the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; President of Dangote Group, Alhaji Aliko Dangote; Chairman of BUA Group, Abdul Rabiu; Group Chief Executive of Oando, Wale Tinubu; and Tinubu’s long-time friend, Prof. Shaffideen Amuwo.
Speaking after the prayer, President Tinubu called on Nigerians to embrace unity, compassion, and generosity—especially towards the vulnerable in society.
He said, “As we make sacrifices, we should remember to pray and give to those who are vulnerable, We must come together to be one another’s keeper and love everyone fully. We must pray hard for our troops who are keeping us safe and making the sacrifices in the challenges of terrorism and banditry that we face.”
A statement issued by the president’s special adviser, Bayo Onanuga, revealed that the chief imam also addressed the congregation, urging worshippers to live in peace and show care for the poor and their neighbours.
“If we are to see the Nigeria of our dreams, we must be ready to make sacrifices. We must unite as Nigerians to make progress. We must rise above tribal sentiments. Whether you are Igbo, Yoruba, or Hausa, we must live above ethnic sentiments,” the Chief Imam was quoted as saying.
According to PUNCH, in his special message to mark the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebration, President Tinubu encouraged Nigerians to be patient with the government’s reform initiatives and assured them that the most difficult period is over.
“We may not yet be where we aspire to be, but I urge all Nigerians not to lose hope. Let us hold on to our faith and persevere. Our reforms are gaining traction, with key economic indicators now moving in a positive direction. Soon, all will feel the benefits,” he said.
