Tinubu Observes Eid-el-Kabir in Lagos, Urges Prayers for Troops and National Unity

Lagos, Nigeria – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu today observed the Eid-el-Kabir prayers at the historic Dodan Barracks prayer ground in Lagos State, joining a multitude of Muslim faithful in the celebration of sacrifice and devotion.

Arriving around 9 AM, President Tinubu, accompanied by top government officials and other dignitaries, participated in the special prayers led by the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Suleiman Oluwatoyin Abu-Nola.

Speaking to journalists after the prayers, President Tinubu delivered a poignant message, emphasizing the critical need for intensified prayers for Nigeria’s military and security agencies. He highlighted the immense sacrifices being made by troops on the frontlines against terrorism and banditry, urging all Nigerians to remember their efforts and pray specifically for their safety and success.

“We should remember to pray for and give to those who are most vulnerable, in the spirit of this season of sacrifice,” President Tinubu stated, according to a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga.

“We must unite, be our brothers’ keeper, and support our neighbours. We should show love to everyone.” He further stressed the importance of citizens conducting themselves responsibly.

In his sermon, Chief Imam Abu-Nola echoed the President’s sentiments, urging Muslim faithful to reflect on Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) sacrificial life. “The whole essence of today is sacrifice. We must learn to make sacrifices for our family, nation, and community. Our service should be rendered to Allah, not man,” the Chief Imam admonished.

He called for peaceful coexistence, kindness to the poor and vulnerable, and urged Nigerians to rise above tribal sentiments to achieve the nation of their dreams.

Among the notable figures who joined President Tinubu at the Eid ground were the Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola; the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Muhammed Matawalle; the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat; and former Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Fashola. Also present were prominent business leaders including Aliko Dangote and Abdul Samad Rabiu.

The Dodan Barracks prayer ground holds significant historical importance, having served as the Supreme Military Headquarters and official residence for military heads of state for various periods in Nigeria’s history.

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Its designation as a prayer ground for such a significant Islamic observance underscores the blend of tradition and civic responsibility observed by the nation’s leadership.

Eid-el-Kabir, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s unwavering faith and willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to Allah.

The celebration is marked by spiritual reflection, communal prayers, and the symbolic slaughter of animals, fostering a spirit of generosity and unity among Muslims globally.