Tinubu at Eid prayers: ‘We are all responsible for Nigeria’s security’

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu on Friday called for sustained peace and vigilance across Nigeria after Eid-el-Fitr prayers at Dodan Barracks Eid Ground, stressing that national stability is a collective duty amid fragile global tensions.

Speaking to reporters after the prayers, Tinubu urged citizens to embody the lessons of Ramadan and Lent—patience, tolerance, and neighbourliness—as cornerstones of nation-building.

“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,” he declared.

The president highlighted the importance of extending Ramadan’s charity beyond fasting. “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,” he said. “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.”

Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s religious unity in worshipping one God, urging character shaped by prayers, scriptures, meditation, and penitence. “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,” he noted, calling for embracing diversity and national unity.

Reflecting on his UK visit with First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, Tinubu framed it as showcasing Nigeria’s global economic rise and interfaith tolerance.

“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.”

Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat affirmed the state’s prayers for national peace and thanked Tinubu for his support.

Leading the prayers, the Grand Chief Imam of Lagos State, Alhaji Sulaiman Oluwatoyoyin Abou-Nolla, preached 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. 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.

Tinubu was joined by National Security Adviser Malam Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola, associates, and family members.