NIGERIAN governors have congratulated their respective citizens as they celebrate Eid-El-Kabir, widely regarded as the feast of sacrifice by adherents of Islam.
Among them is Lagos Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who wants Nigerians to take some lessons from prophet Ibrahim’s exemplary life by eschewing tendencies that could disturb the peace, unity and stability in the country. and keep their hopes alive and continue to work for the unity, and progress of the nation.
He urged Lagosians and Nigerians, particularly the Islamic faithful, to continue on the path of spirituality and peaceful coexistence and imbibe the lessons of the sacrifice made by the prophet Ibrahim.
“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, who held on tenaciously to his faith in God despite being afflicted,” Sanwo-Olu said in a statement by his spokesman, Gboyega Akosile.
“The festival is a reminder to us that there will always be great rewards when we have faith and patience during trying periods, persistence in prayers, and tenacity in our beliefs.
“As we celebrate this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, I want to urge all Lagosians and Nigerians in general to be hopeful of a better future.”
He also called on Nigerians to remain steadfast and have faith in the “Renewed Hope” agenda of the President Bola Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress (APC) administration.
In neighbouring Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun emphasized the importance of submitting to the almighty God and prioritizing spiritual well-being over worldly desires.
In his goodwill message, he highlighted the significance of selflessness, compassion, and the willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of faith and the betterment of humanity.
Governor Abiodun calls on Muslim Ummar to use the occasion of the eid-el-kabir celebration to reflect on the teachings of the prophet Ibrahim and strive to emulate his unwavering faith, obedience and dedication to serving the greater good.
“This special season serves as an important reminder to all adherents for total submission to the Almighty God and the need to prioritize spiritual well-being over worldly desires.
“It is also a period of sober reflection on the importance of selflessness, compassion, and the willingness to make sacrifices for the sake of our faith and the betterment of humanity,” he said.
The governor added that Sallah presents an opportunity for Muslims to gather with their families, strengthen their bonds, and share in the blessings of the festive period.
Joining his colleagues, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde also called on Muslims to use the opportunity to rededicate themselves to the service of Allah and do good to humanity.
He equally charged them to use the occasion to make more supplications to Allah for continued peace and prosperity in Nigeria and Oyo state.
“As I have always said, our administration appreciates the support and prayers of the Muslim Ummah over the last five years,” Makinde was quoted in a statement by his spokesman, Moses Alao.
“But, we desire more support and prayers because the times we are in demand that we give more; more sacrifice, more prayers and more patriotism to our state and country.
“It is my prayer that Allah will accept our worship and reward our efforts,” Mr Makinde stated.
On his part, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa felicitated the Muslim community in Ondo State as they celebrated this year’s eid-el-kabir.
The governor, in his Sallah message, prayed that this year’s celebration would bring blessings, peace and prosperity to all Muslim faithful in the state.
While assuring the Muslim faithful of the fulfilment of promises made by his administration on inclusive governance, the governor urges them to continue to give the government the necessary support.
In Ebonyi, the state governor, Francis Nwifuru, urged the Muslim faithful to maximise the Sallah period and pray for peace, progress, unity and development of Nigeria.
Governor Nwifuru prayed for Allah’s blessings to fill their lives and usher them into an era of prosperity even as he wished them a long life.
He said every security arrangement has been perfected to ensure a hitch-free Sallah celebration.
To far-away North, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, admonishes Muslims on the imperative and value of devotion, patience, and perseverance.
He reminded Muslims of the significance and values of Eid Kabir which is anchored on selflessness, love and compassion, urging them to use the occasion to show love and care to their families, and neighbours.
He also asked them to continue to pray earnestly for the peace and progress of Kaduna State and the country in general, saying the measures being put in place to actualise his sustained agenda in the state require the collective sacrifice and perseverance in bearing the pain therefrom.
For Adamawa Governor, Ahmadu Fintiri, despite the economic hardship Nigerians are going through, there will be light at the end of the tunnel.
He enjoined Nigerians to make good use of their diversity and have faith that they will soon overcome the current harsh economic challenges.
“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 Salah message by his Chief Press Secretary, Humhashi Wonosikou.
