President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to take collective responsibility for safeguarding the nation’s peace and security, emphasising that sustaining stability is not the duty of government alone.
The President also urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements across the country, stressing that national security requires the active participation of all.
President Tinubu who spoke to reporters after the Eid-ul-Fitr prayers at the Dodan Barrack, said the bedrock of development lies in peaceful and harmonious coexistence.
“I pray for peace in the country. The stability, peace and security of the nation is not just one man’s responsibility. We are all involved. Report suspicious movements of people across the length and breadth of the country. These are our responsibilities too.”
The Nigerian Leader highlighted the task of nation-building is collective, inclusive and shared by all Nigerians, urging more emphasis on the beauty of diversity and the unity of the country.
President Tinubu further urged that the spiritual emphasis on charity and kindness to others should go beyond the fasting period.
“We give thanks to God for guiding us through the month of Ramadan. We have accepted the principles, philosophy and doctrine of giving, peace, security and love of our nation, and of neighbours, and kindness to all humanity in any way we can.
“We should assist the needy and help the vulnerable. That is the teaching. May God accept our sacrifices.
“We must continue not because Ramadan has come and it’s over. We thank almighty God for giving us that month. But the teaching must continue even after Ramadan. We must continue to be our brother’s keeper. Good behaviour, good neighbours, and love for humanity.”
President Tinubu noted that the focus of all religions in the country remains the worship of one God, and that the character of citizens must reflect deep spiritual values drawn from prayers, the study of the holy scriptures, meditation, and penitence.
Reflecting on his recent state visit to the United Kingdom, President Tinubu said the reception by King Charles III and Queen Camilla underscored Nigeria’s growing relevance in the global economy.
According to him, the visit also highlighted the importance of tolerance and mutual respect among different faiths and cultures.
Also speaking, Lagos State Deputy Governor, Obafemi Hamzat, assured that the state government would continue to pray for peace and the well-being of all Nigerians, while commending the President for his sustained support to the state.
In his sermon, the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos State, Alhaji Sulaiman Oluwatoyin Abou-Nolla, urged Muslims to uphold the virtues of piety, discipline, and brotherhood, noting that the current global climate calls for calmness, wisdom, and unity.
The Eid prayers were attended by top government officials, including the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila; and former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Fashola, alongside family members and associates.