President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to intensify prayers for the nation’s military and security personnel who continue to put their lives on the line to safeguard the country, particularly in the fight against terrorism and banditry.

Speaking to journalists after observing the Eid-al-Adha prayers at the Eid Ground in Dodan Barracks, Lagos, the President emphasized the need to remember vulnerable citizens and uphold the spirit of sacrifice that defines the festival.

“We should remember to pray and give to those who are very vulnerable in the spirit of the season, which is sacrifice,” President Tinubu said. “We must unite, remain our brothers’ keeper, and give to our neighbours. We should show love to everyone.”

He urged Nigerians to “pray hard for our troops” and remain law-abiding citizens, stressing that national unity and love for one another are essential for overcoming current security challenges.

Delivering the Eid sermon, the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Suleiman Oluwatoyin Abu-Nola, echoed the President’s message, calling on Muslims to emulate Prophet Abraham’s example of selfless sacrifice.

“The whole essence of today is sacrifice,” the Imam said. “We must render our service to Allah, not men. If we are to see the Nigeria of our dreams, we must be ready to make sacrifices and live above ethnic sentiments.”

A host of dignitaries joined President Tinubu at the prayer ground, including Minister of Defence Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola; Minister of State for Defence Bello Muhammed Matawalle; Deputy Governor of Lagos State Femi Hamzat; and former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola.

Also in attendance were National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly Mudashiru Obasa, Dangote Group President Alhaji Aliko Dangote, BUA Group Chairman Abdul Samad Rabiu, Oando Group Chief Executive Wale Tinubu, and President Tinubu’s longtime friend and ally, Prof. Shaffideen Amuwo.