Eid-el-Fitr: We must love Nigeria more than any other country — Tinubu

 

PRESIDENT Bola Tinubu yesterday in Lagos, joined Muslim faithful to observe the Eid-el-Fitr prayers, urging Nigerians to continue to have faith in his government and remain patriotic citizens.

He also called on the citizenry to love Nigeria more than any other country and continue to protect the integrity of the government and leadership.

Addressing journalists after the prayers at the Eid ground at Dodan Barracks, Obalende, Tinubu said the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration, aimed at bringing prosperity to Nigerians, was being diligently implemented.

Encouraging Muslims celebrating the conclusion of Ramadan to extend the values of sacrifice and resilience beyond the fasting period, the President emphasized the need for Nigerians to prioritize the exhibition of love for their country.

The President in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, said:  ”The resilience and sacrifice that we have shown and made during these months should be preserved. Be a kind and cheerful giver. We must love our country more than any other country, because that is the only one we have.

”We must continue to protect the integrity of our government and leadership.  The Renewed Hope Agenda is alive, well and fine, and Nigerians should continue to be very hopeful. Without hope, there is no salvation; without hope, there is no development; without hope, there is no life. Eid Mubarak,’’

Earlier in his sermon, the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Sulaiman Oluwatoyin Abou-Nolla, urged Nigerians to shun all acts of violence, ensure peaceful co-existence, and continue to have faith in the country.

He asked those in leadership positions to remain faithful to their oaths of office and work towards alleviating the suffering of the less privileged.

‘‘Let us not forget our brothers and sisters in Gaza and other areas of conflict,’’ the Chief Imam said.

He offered prayers of God’s guidance, wisdom, and protection for President Tinubu and Lagos State government, as well as for peace and stability in the country.