President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerians to uphold love, tolerance, generosity, and respect for the rule of law as Muslims across the country mark the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
He made the call on Wednesday shortly after performing the two-unit Eid prayer at the Dodan Barracks Eid Ground in Lagos, where he joined other faithful for the festivities.
The president expressed gratitude to God for the grace of witnessing another Eid, noting that the occasion is a reminder of divine mercy and blessings.
He encouraged Nigerians to draw lessons from the festival by promoting unity, compassion, and peaceful coexistence regardless of ethnic or religious differences.
According to him, the essence of Eid-el-Kabir is rooted in love and selflessness, stressing that citizens should avoid discrimination, hatred, and division.
Tinubu added that Nigerians must continue to show kindness and generosity to one another in a way that reflects shared humanity and national values.
He also emphasized the importance of tolerance and adherence to both religious teachings and the rule of law as key pillars for sustaining peace and stability in society.
Addressing security concerns, the president noted that no religion supports violence, banditry, or the taking of innocent lives.
He stressed that acts of brutality have no basis in any religious doctrine, adding that the sanctity of human life remains central to the message of sacrifice symbolised during the festival.
Earlier, the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Sulaimon Abou-Nolla, urged Muslims to embrace sacrifice, generosity, unity, and service to humanity as core lessons of Eid-el-Kabir.
He explained that the festival reflects the obedience of Prophet Ibrahim, who demonstrated total submission to God’s command.
The Chief Imam also called on Nigerians to reject tribalism, hate speech, terrorism, and all forms of violence, urging citizens to work together for peace and national development.
He further prayed for the success of the administration, asking for divine guidance, wisdom, and good health for President Tinubu.
The Eid prayer was attended by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his deputy Obafemi Hamzat, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, former governor Raji Fashola, and other senior government officials.