Thousands of Muslim faithful were joined by top government officials, traditional rulers and community leaders at the Eid prayer ground in Gombe to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations.
Among the dignitaries in attendance was Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, alongside the emir of Gombe, Dr. Abubakar Shehu Abuakar III, as well as members of the State Executive Council, lawmakers and heads of security agencies.
During the congregational prayer, at the Central Eid Ground, the Deputy Chief Imam of Gombe, Ali Yahya Hammari, congratulated Muslims on the successful completion of the Ramadan fast, expressing hope that their supplications had been accepted and that they had attained spiritual purification with the promise of paradise.
“Having completed the fast, we are spiritually renewed and cleansed,” he said.
Imam Hammari outlined key expectations for the Muslim Ummah during the festive period, including the observance of charity, increased voluntary prayers, acts of kindness, social interaction and the exchange of gifts.
He noted that Ramadan had reinforced important values such as unity, mutual support, reconciliation, almsgiving, care for the less privileged and peaceful coexistence among Muslims.
Reflecting on the coincidence of Eid falling on a Friday, he noted that while Allah has waived the obligatory Friday congregational prayer, Muslims should emulate the example of Prophet Muhammad, who still observed the Friday prayer after the Eid prayers.
Imam Hammari therefore called on the Muslim Ummah to remain steadfast in following the Prophet’s example by consistently observing Friday prayers and sustaining the virtues imbibed during Ramadan.
Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya called on Muslims and all Nigerians to sustain the spirit of devotion, sacrifice and supplication cultivated during the holy month of Ramadan as they celebrate this year’s Eid-ul-Fitr.
In a goodwill message marking the successful completion of the Ramadan fast, the Governor emphasised that Eid-ul-Fitr is not only a time of celebration but also an opportunity for deep reflection, urging the faithful to translate the lessons of the sacred month into their daily conduct.
“As we celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, I admonish us all to imbibe the virtues of Ramadan, which embody piety, obedience and selflessness. We must uphold the tenets of Islam that promote peace, tolerance, modesty and love,” he said.
Governor Yahaya stressed the need for sustained prayers for peace, unity and prosperity, particularly as the nation navigates socio-economic challenges.
He urged citizens not to lose hope, but to remain steadfast in faith and united in purpose, expressing confidence that Nigeria will emerge stronger and more cohesive.
The Governor also called on the people of Gombe State to continue to cherish and safeguard the prevailing peace and harmony, describing peace as the bedrock of meaningful development.
He reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for any act capable of undermining public order, pledging to remain focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.
Governor Yahaya, who also serves as Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, highlighted the significance of the period ahead as political activities gather momentum nationwide ahead of the 2027 general elections. He appealed for continued prayers to ensure a peaceful and credible process.
“At this critical time, as electioneering activities gather pace, I urge all citizens to pray for a peaceful process and for our leaders at all levels, that God grants them wisdom and guides them in the discharge of their responsibilities,” he added.
He further called on religious, traditional and community leaders to intensify efforts in promoting unity, tolerance and peaceful coexistence, noting that such values are essential for sustained growth and stability.
The Governor expressed appreciation to the people of Gombe State for their steadfast support and cooperation, urging them to renew their commitment to the collective progress of the state. He reassured citizens of his administration’s resolve to accelerate development across critical sectors, consolidate on existing gains and deliver sustainable prosperity for all.