From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his dedication to ensuring Nigeria’s peace and stability, stressing the importance of hard work and prayer in achieving these goals.

According to a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President spoke on Friday in Abuja after a special Juma’ah prayer session held at the National Mosque to commemorate his 73rd birthday, expressing gratitude to God for his life and the opportunity to serve the nation.

“I feel good, I feel happy. I thank Almighty Allah for His protection and for answering our prayers,” Tinubu remarked.

He highlighted his commitment to the safety and welfare of Nigerians, stating that these remain central to his prayers and efforts.

“We also thank Allah for accepting our worship; that is key and very important to us.

“We have prayed for our country. We prayed for the stability and peace of the nation. We prayed that Almighty Allah will safeguard our people and all citizens,” Tinubu added.

The President said his watchword remains “hard work and hard prayers.”

“The word for all of us is hard work. You work harder, and you pray harder. That’s the inspiration I got from today’s sermon.

“We thank God Almighty that at this stage, we are still in it and working,” he added.

The event was attended by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, ministers, service chiefs, and members of the President’s family. It featured prayers led by Dr Abdulkadir Salman Solagberu and other Islamic scholars, who prayed for Tinubu’s health, wisdom, and strength to steer Nigeria toward progress.

The Imam of the National Mosque, Prof. Muhammad Kabir Adam, praised Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for their support of the needy during Ramadan. He urged Nigerians to continue praying for the nation’s leaders and fostering goodwill among citizens.

Abdulkadir Solagberu, the Malami Ubandoma of Ilorin Emirate, assured President Tinubu of continual prayers for his good health, strength, and wisdom to steer the nation’s affairs.

The renowned Islamic cleric and scholar noted that prayers for the nation’s peace and stability would herald the citizens’ development and well-being.

“Mr President, Allah is with you, and you will succeed,” he added.