President Bola Tinubu, former President Muhammadu Buhari, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, and President of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, shared insights on addressing the economic challenges faced by the nation during a recent gathering.
Marking the Eid festivities amidst soaring food prices, Tinubu urged Nigerians to cultivate a spirit of care for one another and extend charity, emphasizing the need for some level of sacrifice to propel the nation forward.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, the former Lagos state governor underscored the importance of individuals embracing their civic responsibilities as citizens.
He emphasized, “We have been enlightened by the Chief Imam on the essence of sacrifice in being good citizens. Citizenship entails duty. What do we need to do as citizens to contribute meaningfully to society?
“Indeed, that is sacrifice; showing love for one’s country and fellow citizens, sharing resources, and expressing gratitude to the Creator.”
Lagos Imam
During his sermon, the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Suleiman Abou-Nolla, stressed the significance of fostering increased love, sacrifice, and support for the underprivileged.
He highlighted the exemplary sacrifices made by past leaders such as Ahmadu Bello, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, and others, urging the populace to honor their legacy by actively contributing to national development.
Former President Buhari, in his message, encouraged citizens to engage in farming and patronize locally-made products to bolster food production, stabilize prices, and enhance food security for the country.
Addressing the press after participating in Eid prayers with Emir of Daura, Dr. Faruk Faruk, Buhari advocated for self-reliance and highlighted the crucial role of youth in nation-building efforts.
He voiced concerns about unchecked population growth, stressing the need for education and health investments to address the issue proactively.
Buhari urged mutual assistance among citizens in times of need, emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration for a better future.
In a gesture of appreciation to the National Youth Service Corps members, Buhari commended the scheme’s unifying impact and underscored the importance of supporting its continuity.
Buhari lauds NYSC
He commended the NYSC as one of General Yakubu Gowon’s notable achievements during his administration and made donations to the corps members in observance of the occasion.
The Sultan, in his Eid message, called for intensified efforts from leaders to address the economic and security challenges confronting Nigeria, underscoring the need for collective action to ensure food security and mitigate hunger.
Imam Malamin Akwara, Chief Imam of the Sultan Bello Mosque, led prayers at the Sokoto central Eid ground, with dignitaries including the Sultan of Sokoto and other government officials in attendance.
Similarly, President Okoh of CAN urged Nigerians to foster unity, forgiveness, and faith, and to prioritize peace and solidarity amidst prevailing challenges in the nation.
He called on Nigerians to embrace sacrificial values and unity for a better future and to seek divine intervention in overcoming current struggles.
“Let us come together in love, forgiveness, and reconciliation during these trying times. May we pray for divine guidance in our security, economic, and political endeavors as a nation,” Okoh remarked, extending warm greetings to Muslims celebrating Eid-el-Kabir.
The message conveyed was a call for unity and solidarity among Nigerians in building a prosperous nation where all citizens can thrive irrespective of differences in religion, tribe, or creed. Emphasis was placed on the need for divine intervention in national struggles and support for the displaced, bereaved, and traumatized individuals.
Acknowledging the economic challenges faced during the celebration, Alhaji Tajudeen Ahmed highlighted the impact of inflation on the high costs of rams and food. Dr. Muhammad Idris urged stakeholders to prioritize the education of every child, particularly out-of-school children, emphasizing that education is a fundamental right essential for youth empowerment and societal contribution.
On the economic front, residents in Niger State expressed struggles with affordability due to soaring prices of rams, with some opting for chickens as alternatives. Despite the challenges, individuals like Suleiman Abdullahi and Aisha Umar found solace in the blessings of the celebration and the spirit of sharing with neighbors.
The significance of education and human capital development, including efforts to address challenges faced by vulnerable groups like Almajiri and out-of-school children, was underscored. Various individuals, including Alfa Taoreed Olatunji and Mr. Kehinde Yusuf, highlighted the economic strain affecting the Eid-el-Adha celebration, with rising costs impacting festive preparations and meals.
The feedback from residents in Ogun State mirrored similar sentiments of economic hardships affecting the celebration. Alhaji Alhasan Saudauki of the Hausa community in Akwa Ibom State lamented the inflation’s toll on Muslims’ ability to meet family demands during the festivities.
The central theme revolved around the adverse impact of skyrocketing inflation rates, significantly reducing purchasing power and hindering the joy of the celebrations for many Nigerians. Economists like Shadrach Israel and Jonathan Thomas raised concerns about underlying structural issues in the economy, emphasizing the urgent need for government intervention through various measures to restore economic stability and improve citizens’ welfare.