Atiku, Abbas, Govs Preach Sacrifice at Sallah

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and some state governors have called on Nigerians, particularly Muslims, to use the occasion of the Eid-el-Kabir festival to pray for the unity and prosperity of the country.

Atiku, in a statement from his media office on Thursday, also called on those in leadership to demonstrate compassion and place the well-being of the people above all, in accordance with divine guidance.

The former Vice President said, “The essence of Eid-al-Adha, rooted in the traditions of Prophet Ibrahim and upheld by Prophet Muhammad, calls us to reflect kindness and peace in our lives.

“Leadership demands forbearance and commitment to the greater good. I appeal to those in authority to show compassion and prioritise the welfare of the people, in line with God’s command.”

On his part, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, implored Muslims to imbibe the spirit of sacrifice, which, according to him, is one of the hallmarks of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

The speaker, who is participating in the 2025 Hajj in Saudi Arabia, gave the charge in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi.

“Through prayers, selfishness, dedication, and renewed hope, we shall overcome our challenges as a nation,” the speaker said.

Govs preach sacrifice

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, urged the Muslim faithful to embrace the teachings of Islam during this period, which according to him underscores the significance of selflessness and compassion towards others.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, in Abeokuta, the state capital, Abiodun also charged security personnel to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens, especially during the festive periods, even as he called upon all citizens to adhere to safety protocols to ensure a safe and healthy celebration.

The governor also highlighted the role of unity and harmony among all religious adherents in the state, noting that Eid-el-Adha serves as a reminder of the importance of coming together to foster peace and understanding among all citizens.

“On this special occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all Muslims as we observe Eid-el-Adha. This celebration is not only a time for joy and festivity but also a moment for reflection on the values of sacrifice, love, and generosity.

“As we gather with family and friends, let us remember those in need and extend our hands to help them. The true essence of Eid lies in our ability to share our blessings with others,” the governor said.

Similarly, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, stressed the importance of love, brotherhood, and peaceful coexistence among Muslims and adherents of other religions in the state.

The governor, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, also enjoined Muslims to imbibe the core lesson of Eid-el-Kabir.

Oyebanji emphasised the need for collective efforts in the task of developing the state, describing the Muslim Community as an important partner in taking the state to a higher pedestal of development.

The governor also urged the Muslim Ummah in the state not to relent in supporting his administration and that of President Bola Tinubu with prayers, expressing optimism that a brighter and a glorious future is on the horizon.

On his part, Katsina State Governor, Mallam Dikko Umar Radda, urged the citizens to embrace faith, sacrifice, and unity for the state’s continued progress and security.

Radda in a message to Muslim faithful by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed, called on Nigerians to embrace this period for reflection, prayer, and acts of kindness towards one another.

“Specifically, Radda implored pilgrims observing the Arafat rites to remember Katsina State in their prayers, seeking peace, unity, and an end to insecurity. While also acknowledging the prayers of those fasting at home, he stressed their importance for the state’s continued protection and blessings.

“With the Eid celebration arriving concurrently with the rainy season’s commencement, Radda offered prayers for abundant rains and a bountiful harvest. “This year’s Eid comes at the start of the rainy season — a lifeline for our farmers. I pray for good rains and a rich harvest. Agriculture is the heartbeat of our economy. I urge our citizens to take advantage of our farming and business support programs under the Building Your Future agenda,” the statement read.

Similarly, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, urged residents to reflect on the virtues of Prophet Ibrahim and imbibe the spirit of selflessness and love for one another.

The governor, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar , on Thursday, stated “As we mark this important festival, which symbolizes sacrifice, obedience, compassion, and faith, of prophet Ibrahim, I felicitate to the good people of Bauchi State and indeed all Nigerians, especially the Muslim Ummah on the blessed occasion of Eid – el – Kabir Celebrations.”

Bala said, “Bauchi is our shared home, and the progress and stability of our dear state depend on our collective commitment to peace and brotherhood.

“As we celebrate, let us remember to be our brothers’ keepers. Let us extend hands of kindness to the less privileged, promote understanding among ourselves, and work together to build a society grounded in justice, equity, and harmony.”

Also, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, has appealed to Muslims to embrace the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, and tolerance which define the essence of the festival.

In his Sallah goodwill message, signed by Director-General, Press Affairs, Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli, Yahaya called on the faithful to submit wholeheartedly to the will of Almighty Allah in all circumstances, just as Prophet Ibrahim demonstrated.

He emphasised the importance of upholding the values of love, compassion, and good neighbourliness as exemplified by the Prophets of Islam.

“As we mark this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, let us reflect on its core message, which is total submission, obedience, selflessness, and unwavering faith.

“Islam teaches us peace, tolerance, modesty, and love. These values must guide our individual conduct and collective aspirations as a people,” the statement partly read.

In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde charged Muslims to use the occasion of the festival to engage in more prayers for the state, Nigeria, and all the leaders.

Makinde, in a statement by his Special Adviser (Media), Sulaimon Olanrewaju, described Eid Adha as one “blessed and glorious festival” through which Muslims worshipped God and show complete dedication to him, prayed to God to accept and reward the sacrifices of all worshippers.

He said, “The Eid Adha is one glorious festival and an opportunity for Muslim faithful to demonstrate their dedication to God through prayers and sacrifice.

“I urge all Muslims and all residents of the state to be watchful and alert during the festivities, as security is a responsibility for everyone. If anyone sees something, they should say something and the government will do something.”

Meanwhile, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has donated rams, bags of rice, and other food items to the Muslim community in Abia State ahead of the Sallah festival.

Presenting the items to the Muslim faithful led by Sarki Shehu Bello in Bende, Bende Local Government Area of the State, Kalu urged them to use the occasion to spread love to the indigent people and put a smile on their faces.

A statement issued on Thursday by the Special Assistant to the Deputy Speaker on Print Affairs, Udora Orizu, quoted Kalu as saying that he would not relent in championing the cause and welfare of his people by spreading the dividends of democracy.

Wishing them a joyous celebration, the deputy speaker appealed to the Muslim faithful and all Nigerians to continue to pray for and support the President Bola Tinubu-led administration.

Also, the member representing Abeokuta North/Obafemi-Owode/Odeda Federal Constituency, Ogun State, Olumide Osoba, donated N40m to 800 constituents to mark this year Eid-el-Kabir.

Each of the beneficiaries received N50,000.

This is in addition to the recent distribution of rams and bags of rice to Muslims across the Local Government Areas that make up the federal constituency.

A statement issued by the media team of the federal lawmaker on Thursday noted that “Constituents have already begun confirming receipt of the funds through Desmike Global Services with many expressing appreciation for Hon Osoba’s kindness.”

Similarly, the Senator Representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Sunday Karimi has gifted 25 Cows, 150 Rams alongside cash worth millions of Naira to Muslim faithful to enable them celebrate this year’s Eid El Kabir across the Senatorial District.

The Senator urged faithful to use the occasion of the Eid El Kabir to intensify prayers for the success of the administration present administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and for other leaders in positions of authority at all levels.

While wishing adherents a joyous occasion of Eid El Kabir,he urged adherents not to forget the profound significance of sacrifice and to demonstrate the valuable lessons of obedience that the season exemplifies.

He congratulated Nigerian Muslims and other faithful on this occasion of the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir, congratulated them for witnessing yet another celebration of Eid El Kabir.