***Maiduguri residents defy fear, turn out in large numbers for Eid prayers
President Bola Tinubu on Friday urged Nigerians to see national stability and security as everyone’s responsibility and not that of one person.
“The stability, peace and security of the nation is not just one man’s responsibility. We are all involved,” the President said in Lagos against the background of this week’s foiled terrorists’ attack in Maiduguri.
President Tinubu spoke to reporters at the end of the Eid-el-Fitr prayers at Dodan Barracks to mark the end of the 30-day long Ramadan.
He said citizens should play their part in ensuring Nigeria’s stability, peace and security by assisting security agencies with information.
“Report suspicious movements of people across the length and breadth of the country. These are our responsibilities too,” he said.
He also asked Nigerians to embody the lessons of Ramadan and Lent—patience, tolerance, and neighbourliness—as cornerstones of nation-building.
He prayed for peace in the country.
Highlighting the importance of extending Ramadan’s charity beyond fasting, President Tinubu said: “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… The teaching must continue even after Ramadan. We must continue to be our brother’s keeper. Good behaviour, good neighbours, and love for humanity.
“The focus of all religions in the country remains the worship of one God… The task of nation-building is collective, inclusive and shared by all Nigerians.”
Reflecting on his just concluded State visit to the UK, he said it went a long way in showcasing Nigeria’s global economic rise and interfaith tolerance.
His words: “Our visit was a very big opportunity for us to be a good example of the diversity in our society, being able to accept one another as our brothers’ keepers. Tolerance among all faiths. The fact that we worship the same God doesn’t mean our styles have to be the same. Our behaviour could be different, but we serve God Almighty.”
The Grand Chief Imam of Lagos State, Alhaji Sulaiman Oluwatoyoyin Abou-Nolla, led the prayers.
He spoke of the enduring virtues of Ramadan—penitence and piety—amid global unrest. “Today, we are witnessing a world unsettled by tensions and fear. Nations are on edge, and economies are fragile,” he said.
He added: “for Nigerians… this is a time for calmness, not chaos—a time for wisdom, not provocation. Ours is a religion of peace and discipline and care,” the Imam implored, urging brotherhood despite challenges.”
With the President at the Eid grounds were National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, associates, and family members.
Shettima joins worshippers in Maiduguri, reaffirms commitment to security
Vice President Kashim Shettima joined thousands of Muslim faithful at Ramat Square in Maiduguri to observe the Eid-el-Fitr prayers where he reassured Nigerians of Federal Government’s resolve to tackle insecurity and other national challenges.
The expansive prayer ground was filled to capacity as worshippers gathered in a remarkable display of faith and unity to mark the end of the holy month of Ramadan.
The Eid prayers were led by the Chief Imam of Borno State, Shettima Mamman Saleh, and attended by prominent dignitaries, including Governor Babagana Zulum, Senator Ali Ndume, Senator Kaka Shehu Lawan, as well as other notable sons and daughters of the state.
Addressing journalists after the prayers, the Vice President expressed optimism that insecurity across the country would soon be brought under control, citing ongoing proactive measures by both the Federal Government and state authorities.
Shettima emphasized the need for national unity, noting that the coincidence of Ramadan and the Christian Lenten season presents a unique opportunity for reflection and collective action.
According to Shettima, meaningful national progress cannot be achieved without peace, urging Nigerians to work together in confronting shared challenges such as insecurity and underdevelopment.
He also commended the people and leadership of Borno State for their resilience in the face of adversity, praising their sustained commitment to peace, harmony, and development.
