By Tolúlopé Olátúnjí
Some Nigerian governors have extended their heartfelt congratulations to citizens celebrating Eid-El-Kabir, urging them to embrace the spirit of sacrifice and unity that the festival represents.
Among the governors who extended greetings to Muslim faithfuls in their celebration were Godwin Obaseki of Edo State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State, Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, and Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, among others.
In Sanwo-Olu’s statement by his spokesman, Gboyega Akosile, he urged Nigerians to maintain peace and unity. He called for continued spirituality and peaceful coexistence, noting the festival’s symbolic importance.
“Eid-al-Adha is a symbolic event in the history of mankind, given the bountiful rewards that followed the patience and perseverance of Prophet Ibrahim,” Sanwo-Olu said. He encouraged all Lagosians and Nigerians to remain hopeful for a better future and steadfast in their faith in the “Renewed Hope” agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
On the occasion of Eid-El-Kabir, Obaseki urged everyone to reflect on the peculiar state of the nation and espouse virtues that would promote peace, unity, good neighbourliness and sacrifice.
The Edo State governor said: “We should all strive to have a deeper relationship with God as we reflect on the lessons of the season. Our nation is in dire straits. This period demands that we work together and do away with all ethno-religious strife for our collective progress.”
Meanwhile, his Ogun counterpart, Dapo Abiodun, highlighted the significance of submission to God and prioritizing spiritual well-being over worldly desires. He urged Muslims to reflect on Prophet Ibrahim’s teachings of selflessness and compassion.
“This special season serves as an important reminder for total submission to the Almighty God and the need to prioritize spiritual well-being,” Abiodun stated. He also encouraged Muslims to use the occasion to strengthen family bonds and share in the blessings of the festive period.
In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde called on Muslims to rededicate themselves to the service of Allah and humanity. He stressed the need for continued prayers for peace and prosperity in Nigeria and Oyo State.
“Our administration appreciates the support and prayers of the Muslim Ummah over the last five years,” Makinde said in a statement by his spokesman, Moses Alao. He urged for more support, prayers, and patriotism, hoping Allah would accept their worship and reward their efforts.
In his message, Aiyedatiwa felicitated the Muslim community in Ondo State, praying that the celebration brings blessings, peace, and prosperity. He assured the Muslim faithful of his administration’s commitment to inclusive governance and urged continued support for the government.
Nwifuru pleaded with the Muslim faithful in Ebonyi State to use the Sallah period to pray for peace, progress, unity, and development in Nigeria. He assured that security arrangements were in place for a hitch-free celebration.
Kaduna’s Uba Sani highlighted the importance of devotion, patience, and perseverance, reminding Muslims of the values of Eid-El-Kabir.
Through his Chief Press Secretary, Humwashi Wonosikou, Fintiri similarly acknowledged the economic hardships Nigerians are facing but assured that there is hope for a better future. He encouraged Nigerians to draw strength from their diversity and work together for a brighter future.
“Let us draw strength from our diversity and our shared humanity. Let us work together to build a brighter future for all,” Fintiri said in a Sallah message.
The governors’ messages collectively highlight the importance of unity, faith, and community spirit during Eid-El-Kabir, encouraging Nigerians to remain hopeful and supportive of one another.
