By Olugbenga Salami
Former Senate President Ahmad Ibrahim Lawan has called on Nigerians to turn the spiritual essence of Eid-el-Kabir into a national rebirth anchored on sacrifice, unity and empathy.
In a personally signed Sallah message released to the media on Wednesday, Lawan extended warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah in Yobe North, across Nigeria, and around the world.
The President of the 9th Senate described the festival as a timeless, divine lesson on the supremacy of faith and the profundity of obedience.
Lawan, who represents Yobe North Senatorial District, said the story of Prophet Ibrahim, offers a metaphor for Nigeria’s journey as a nation.
“In the sublime act of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to offer his dearest possession, we find the eternal metaphor for our national journey,” he stated.
He added that the path to a greater collective destiny is paved with personal sacrifice, faith, and submission to the will of the Almighty.
Lawan challenged leaders and citizens in positions of authority to place national interest above personal gain, urging them to sacrifice the comfort of personal benefit for the enduring edifice of national progress, unity and peace.
The former Senate President, who also called on Nigerians to imbibe the spirit of compassion that defined the life of Prophet Muhammad, encouraged citizens to face current challenges with the patience of Hajar and the resoluteness of Prophet Ibrahim.
Lawan said Nigerians must remain steadfast in prayers for the country and its leadership.
“Let us remain resolute in our prayers for our President, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, our leaders and institutions,” he stated, expressing hope that through steadfastness, Nigeria’s season of bountiful rain and rejuvenation is near.
The Yobe North lawmaker further urged citizens to shun tribalism and embrace unity as the nation marks Eid-el-Kabir.
Eid-el-Kabir commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience and willingness to sacrifice, a virtue Muslim leaders say Nigeria needs at this time.
