Lagos: President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to uphold unity, peace, and the lasting values of Ramadan as Muslim faithful across the country mark the Eid‑el‑Fitr festival with prayers and reflection.
The president made the call on Friday shortly after observing the two-rakat Eid prayer at the Dodan Barracks Eid Ground, joining other worshippers to mark the end of the Ramadan fasting period.
Tinubu expressed gratitude for guidance through Ramadan, noting it instilled sacrifice, compassion, discipline, and love for humanity among the faithful.
“We give thanks to God for guiding us through the month of Ramadan and for accepting our sacrifices during this sacred period,” the president said after the Eid prayers.
He stressed that the spirit of Ramadan should guide continued kindness, good conduct, and support for vulnerable people beyond the festival.
“But the teaching must continue beyond Ramadan. We must remain our brother’s keeper, showing love and kindness to all,” he added.
The president called for prayers for peace and stability in the country, stressing that national security remains a shared responsibility that requires cooperation, vigilance, and commitment from all citizens across the federation.
“The stability of our peace and security is not just one man’s responsibility; we all are involved,” Tinubu said.
He urged collective action in safeguarding communities. He urged Nigerians to work together to safeguard communities and national interests, in collaboration with security agencies, particularly regarding suspicious movements, while emphasising the importance of respecting the rule of law nationwide in all circumstances.
Reflecting on his recent visit to the United Kingdom, Tinubu described his engagements with British leaders as a demonstration of unity, mutual respect, and religious tolerance across cultural and faith divides.
He said that the Iftar hosted during the visit underscored a shared belief in one God across different faiths, despite differences in worship practices and religious traditions worldwide.
“We must continue to promote tolerance among all faiths and reflect these values in our society,” the president said while urging harmony and peaceful coexistence among diverse communities nationwide.
Tinubu called on Nigerians to promote peace, stability, and fairness, expressing hope that unified efforts will drive national growth and improve lives.
Earlier, Sheikh Sulaimon Abou-Nolla, Grand Chief Imam of Lagos, urged Muslims to uphold piety, good character, and peaceful coexistence as key lessons from Ramadan. According to the dictates of the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad, stressing discipline and moral responsibility in daily conduct.
“The whole essence of Ramadan is about fasting and”Ramadan is about fasting and piety; being pious means our lives and character must reflect Islamic teachings,” the cleric said. Dignitaries present included Lagos Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and former Inspector-General of Police Musiliu Smith.
Others included Babatunde Fashola, former Lagos State Governor, alongside prominent All Progressives Congress stalwarts who joined worshippers at the Eid ground for prayers marking the end of Ramadan.
