By Emmanuel Babafemi
June 16, 2024
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasised that Nigeria needs citizens who are caring and willing to make sacrifices for the nation’s progress.
Speaking with journalists after Eid-el-Kabir prayers in Lagos on Sunday, the President highlighted the importance of loving one’s country, neighbours, and sharing what one has with others as a form of sacrifice.
“We have been told by the Chief Imam how we can follow the path of sacrifice. The sacrifice required of a good citizen. Citizenship comes with responsibilities. As citizens, what do we need to do to be committed members of our society? Yes, that is sacrifice; loving your country. Loving your neighbours. Sharing what you have with each other. And to always be thankful to Almighty God,” the President said.
In his sermon, the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Suleiman Oluwatoyin Abou-Nolla, who led the prayers, reiterated the need for more love, sacrifice, and care for the poor and the vulnerable.
He highlighted the sacrifices made by past leaders, such as Sir Ahmadu Bello, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, Moshood Kashimawo Olawale Abiola, and Funmilayo Ransome Kuti, who gave their knowledge, wealth, sweat, and even life to the growth and development of the country.
“We must therefore ensure that their sacrifices are not in vain. It is incumbent on us to follow their footsteps to ensure that this nation, Nigeria, continues to grow in leaps and bounds,” he said.
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The Chief Imam of Lagos urged citizens to pray that God Almighty grants the President the strength and wisdom to deliver on his vision for a better and prosperous nation.
Also, in a message he communicated with Nigerians on his social media page, specifically congratulating the Muslim faithful on Sallah celebration, President Tinubu said:
“I celebrate with the Muslim Ummah on the joyous occasion of Eid-el-Kabir, an event that symbolises sacrifice, faith, and obedience to the will of the Almighty.
“I congratulate the Muslim faithful and pray that Allah accepts their supplications and acts of obedience.
“I enjoin all Nigerians to reflect on the essence of this occasion, which holds strong meaning and significance for our nation.
“Sacrifice and duty are essential ingredients to nation-building. It takes collective purpose, will, and action to bring about great change.
“I call on all citizens to spare a prayer for our nation for continuous peace and stability, while working according to purpose in promoting unity, peace, and progress.
“I acknowledge the sacrifices that Nigerians have made in the past year as my administration sets our nation on a firm pedestal of growth and development.
“The sacrifices and great expectations of our citizens will not come to naught, as already propitious outcomes are beginning to manifest with the economy strengthening and vibrancy returning to critical sectors.
“I reassure all Nigerians that my administration is prioritizing their physical, social, and economic security and will not relent on this noble endeavor.
“I wish all Nigerians happy Sallah celebrations.”
