President Bola Tinubu said on Sunday that Nigeria needed to sacrifice citizens to fulfil the dreams of its founding fathers.
Mr Tinubu remarked while addressing journalists after observing the 2024 Eid-el-Adha prayers at Dodan Barracks, Lagos.
The president emphasised the need for the people to sacrifice to make the nation great.
“Being a very good citizen comes with responsibility,” said Mr Tinubu. “As citizens, what do you do to be a very committed member of our society? Go and sacrifice. Love your country, love your neighbours, share what you have with one another and be thankful to Almighty God. That’s all.”
Earlier, while addressing the worshippers, Obafemi Hamzat, the deputy governor of Lagos State, harped on perseverance and patience.
Mr Hamzat urged the Muslim faithful to understand the reason for Eid, which he described as sacrifice and endurance.
He appealed to Nigerians to sustain the peace in the country and do what is right for themselves and their neighbours.
“I urge you all to live in peace and harmony. Be patient and persevere to enjoy the good of the land,” he said.
Delivering the Eid-el-Adha message, the chief imam of Lagos, Suleiman Abou-Nolla, who referred to the Qur’an chapter 3 verse 102, said all believers should fear God.
He said all believers must not die except as Muslims in total submission to Allah.
Mr Abou-Nolla said all the prophets of God sent to mankind with their messages, from Adam to Noah to Ibrahim, Issah and Mohammed (S.A.W.), came with the message of sacrifice.
He said it is all about service to their God and humanity.
The chief imam recalled that former Nigerian leaders Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Ahmadu Bello, Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, MKO Abiola, Funmilayo Ransom-Kuti and others sacrificed their knowledge, wealth, and sweat, which led to the growth and development of the country.
“All their activities and actions were passionate and geared towards nation-building; we must, therefore, ensure that their labour and struggles are not in vain.
“It is incumbent on us to follow in their footsteps and ensure that this nation, Nigeria, continues to grow by leaps and bounds,” the imam said.
Praying for the president, the ithe mam, who noted that Mr Tinubu had a heart and passion for the people, asked God to grant him wisdom, strength, and good health to govern the country well.
He also offered prayers to God for Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his deputy, Mr Hamzat, the Oba of Lagos, Oba Rilwanu Akiolu and all those in authority for guidance and wisdom to lead Nigeria to a great future.
(NAN)