President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, governors, and community leaders across Nigeria have called for unity, sacrifice, compassion, and renewed prayers for peace and national development as Muslims celebrate the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir festival.
In his Sallah message to Nigerians and Muslims worldwide, President Tinubu congratulated the Muslim faithful on witnessing another Eid-el-Kabir celebration, describing the festival as a reminder of the virtues of faith, obedience, sacrifice, and compassion exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.
The President said Nigeria was undergoing a period of “reconstruction and renewal,” noting that ongoing economic reforms, though difficult, were necessary to reposition the country for long-term prosperity.
According to him, the sacrifices made by Nigerians and his administration over the past three years had begun to yield positive economic results, including improved stability and increased investor confidence.
Tinubu declared, “The walk through the dark tunnel is over, and the light is here”, expressing optimism that ongoing reforms would continue to improve security and create more opportunities for citizens.
He acknowledged continued security challenges across parts of the country despite efforts by security agencies, including the reported elimination of a wanted ISIS leader.
The President assured affected communities that the government remained committed to defeating terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities.
Tinubu urged Nigerians to use the occasion to pray for the nation, its leaders, and for peace in communities, while also extending support to the less privileged and strengthening national unity.
“My administration remains committed to building a Nigeria where all citizens can live in peace, worship freely, and pursue their dreams without fear,” he said.
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu also felicitated Muslims across Nigeria and in the diaspora, describing Eid-el-Kabir as a period for reflection on sacrifice, obedience, faith, and compassion.
She urged Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence and mutual respect, stressing that the country’s strength lies in unity and collective commitment to national progress.
The First Lady encouraged citizens to support vulnerable members of society through acts of kindness and generosity, while praying for sustained peace, stability, and prosperity in the country.
Similarly, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu congratulated Muslims in Lagos State and across Nigeria, urging them to continue on the path of spirituality, patience, and peaceful coexistence.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Gboyega Akosile, the Lagos governor said Eid-el-Kabir symbolises the rewards of unwavering faith, patience, and perseverance as demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim.
Sanwo-Olu called on Nigerians to avoid actions capable of undermining the country’s unity and stability and urged citizens to support the administration of President Tinubu in building a more prosperous Nigeria.
“The need to keep Nigeria on the path of development is a collective responsibility of all citizens,” he said.
In Oyo State, Seyi Makinde congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the Eid-el-Adha celebration and urged them to pray for the state, the country, and political leaders.
Makinde specifically appealed for prayers as the government intensifies efforts to rescue abducted teachers and pupils from Oriire Local Government Area.
The governor also advised residents to remain vigilant during and after the festive period amid growing concerns over insecurity, kidnapping, and banditry across the country.
He reassured residents of his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property while sustaining economic growth and development in the state.
Meanwhile, the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII) called on Nigerians to embrace peace, sacrifice, and love for humanity during the celebration.
In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Kola Olomide, the council’s President-General, Chief Ajeniyi Ajewole, said Eid-el-Kabir teaches the virtues of obedience, tolerance, compassion, and total submission to the will of God.
Ajewole urged residents of Ibadanland to promote peaceful coexistence and extend support to the less privileged, stressing that love and humanity remain essential for sustainable development and peaceful living.
He also expressed concern over the nation’s security situation and called on federal and state governments to strengthen measures aimed at protecting lives and property.
“The safety of Nigerians should remain a top priority for governments at all levels,” Ajewole stated.
