President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to be patient with his administration’s reforms, assuring that “the toughest days are behind us.”
Tinubu, who gave the assurance in his message to mark the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebration on Thursday, said that though the journey had not been easy, his economic reforms had already started yielding positive results.
“We may not yet be where we aspire to be, but I urge all Nigerians not to lose hope. Let us hold on to our faith and persevere. Our reforms are gaining traction, with key economic indicators now moving in a positive direction. Soon, all will feel the benefits.
“The ultimate objective of these reforms is not just to improve statistics but to transform lives and set Nigeria firmly on the path to sustainable development. There are no quick fixes, but we are committed to repairing the foundations of our economy once and for all.
“Our administration will continue acting in the nation’s best interest, ensuring that the gains we are recording translate into improving people’s lives,” Tinubu said.
The President also urged Nigerians to continue to pray for the armed forces and security personnel who are risking their lives daily to keep the country safe.
“As we observe this Eid, let us continue our prayers for our front-line officers, who risk their lives for our safety and security. Let us pray for our leaders at all levels and our country. Let us pray for peace in our tumultuous world of troubles and uncertainties. Let us dedicate this sacred celebration to seeking God’s guidance and blessings for our country,” he said.
Reflecting on the significance of Eid-el-Kabir, Tinubu called on Muslims and Nigerians to embrace the values of sacrifice, selflessness, and compassion, which the festival symbolizes. He highlighted the example of Prophet Ibrahim’s devotion as a model for national renewal, unity, and perseverance.
“Eid reminds us of our responsibilities beyond faith: to show resilience, tolerance, compassion, and dedication to the progress of our beloved country,” he said.
Atiku greets Muslims
Atiku Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, and some state governors have called on Nigerians, particularly Muslims, to use the occasion of the Eid-el-Kabir festival to pray for the unity and prosperity of the country.
Atiku, in a statement from his media office on Thursday, also called on those in leadership to demonstrate compassion and place the well-being of the people above all, in accordance with divine guidance.
The former Vice President said, “The essence of Eid-al-Adha, rooted in the traditions of Prophet Ibrahim and upheld by Prophet Muhammad, calls us to reflect kindness and peace in our lives.
“Leadership demands forbearance and commitment to the greater good. I appeal to those in authority to show compassion and prioritise the welfare of the people, in line with God’s command.”
On his part, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, implored Muslims to imbibe the spirit of sacrifice, which, according to him, is one of the hallmarks of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.
The speaker, who is participating in the 2025 Hajj in Saudi Arabia, gave the charge in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi.
“Through prayers, selfishness, dedication, and renewed hope, we shall overcome our challenges as a nation,” the speaker said.
Govs preach sacrifice
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, urged the Muslim faithful to embrace the teachings of Islam during this period, which according to him underscores the significance of selflessness and compassion towards others.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, in Abeokuta, the state capital, Abiodun also charged security personnel to ensure the safety and well-being of citizens, especially during the festive periods, even as he called upon all citizens to adhere to safety protocols to ensure a safe and healthy celebration.
The governor also highlighted the role of unity and harmony among all religious adherents in the state, noting that Eid-el-Adha serves as a reminder of the importance of coming together to foster peace and understanding among all citizens.
On this special occasion, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all Muslims as we observe Eid-el-Adha. This celebration is not only a time for joy and festivity but also a moment for reflection on the values of sacrifice, love, and generosity.
“As we gather with family and friends, let us remember those in need and extend our hands to help them. The true essence of Eid lies in our ability to share our blessings with others,” the governor said.
Similarly, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, stressed the importance of love, brotherhood, and peaceful coexistence among Muslims and adherents of other religions in the state.
The governor, in a statement by his Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, also enjoined Muslims to imbibe the core lesson of Eid-el-Kabir.
Oyebanji emphasised the need for collective efforts in the task of developing the state, describing the Muslim Community as an important partner in taking the state to a higher pedestal of development.
The governor also urged the Muslim Ummah in the state not to relent in supporting his administration and that of President Bola Tinubu with prayers, expressing optimism that a brighter and a glorious future is on the horizon.
On his part, Katsina State Governor, Mallam Dikko Umar Radda, urged the citizens to embrace faith, sacrifice, and unity for the state’s continued progress and security.
Radda in a message to Muslim faithful by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Mohammed, called on Nigerians to embrace this period for reflection, prayer, and acts of kindness towards one another.
“Specifically, Radda implored pilgrims observing the Arafat rites to remember Katsina State in their prayers, seeking peace, unity, and an end to insecurity. While also acknowledging the prayers of those fasting at home, he stressed their importance for the state’s continued protection and blessings.
“With the Eid celebration arriving concurrently with the rainy season’s commencement, Radda offered prayers for abundant rains and a bountiful harvest. “This year’s Eid comes at the start of the rainy season — a lifeline for our farmers. I pray for good rains and a rich harvest. Agriculture is the heartbeat of our economy. I urge our citizens to take advantage of our farming and business support programs under the Building Your Future agenda,” the statement read.
Similarly, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, urged residents to reflect on the virtues of Prophet Ibrahim and imbibe the spirit of selflessness and love for one another.
The governor, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mukhtar , on Thursday, stated “As we mark this important festival, which symbolizes sacrifice, obedience, compassion, and faith, of prophet Ibrahim, I felicitate to the good people of Bauchi State and indeed all Nigerians, especially the Muslim Ummah on the blessed occasion of Eid – el – Kabir Celebrations.”
Bala said, “Bauchi is our shared home, and the progress and stability of our dear state depend on our collective commitment to peace and brotherhood.
“As we celebrate, let us remember to be our brothers’ keepers. Let us extend hands of kindness to the less privileged, promote understanding among ourselves, and work together to build a society grounded in justice, equity, and harmony.”
Also, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, has appealed to Muslims to embrace the virtues of sacrifice, obedience, and tolerance which define the essence of the festival.
In his Sallah goodwill message, signed by Director-General, Press Affairs, Gombe Government House, Ismaila Misilli, Yahaya called on the faithful to submit wholeheartedly to the will of Almighty Allah in all circumstances, just as Prophet Ibrahim demonstrated.
He emphasised the importance of upholding the values of love, compassion, and good neighbourliness as exemplified by the Prophets of Islam.
“As we mark this year’s Eid-el-Kabir, let us reflect on its core message, which is total submission, obedience, selflessness, and unwavering faith.
“Islam teaches us peace, tolerance, modesty, and love. These values must guide our individual conduct and collective aspirations as a people,” the statement partly read.
In Oyo State, Governor Seyi Makinde charged Muslims to use the occasion of the festival to engage in more prayers for the state, Nigeria, and all the leaders.
Makinde, in a statement by his Special Adviser (Media), Sulaimon Olanrewaju, described Eid Adha as one “blessed and glorious festival” through which Muslims worshipped God and show complete dedication to him, prayed to God to accept and reward the sacrifices of all worshippers.
He said, “The Eid Adha is one glorious festival and an opportunity for Muslim faithful to demonstrate their dedication to God through prayers and sacrifice.
“I urge all Muslims and all residents of the state to be watchful and alert during the festivities, as security is a responsibility for everyone. If anyone sees something, they should say something and the government will do something.”
Meanwhile, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu has donated rams, bags of rice, and other food items to the Muslim community in Abia State ahead of the Sallah festival.
Presenting the items to the Muslim faithful led by Sarki Shehu Bello in Bende, Bende Local Government Area of the State, Kalu urged them to use the occasion to spread love to the indigent people and put a smile on their faces.
A statement issued on Thursday by the Special Assistant to the Deputy Speaker on Print Affairs, Udora Orizu, quoted Kalu as saying that he would not relent in championing the cause and welfare of his people by spreading the dividends of democracy.
Wishing them a joyous celebration, the deputy speaker appealed to the Muslim faithful and all Nigerians to continue to pray for and support the President Bola Tinubu-led administration.
Also, the member representing Abeokuta North/Obafemi-Owode/Odeda Federal Constituency, Ogun State, Olumide Osoba, donated N40m to 800 constituents to mark this year Eid-el-Kabir.
Each of the beneficiaries received N50,000.
This is in addition to the recent distribution of rams and bags of rice to Muslims across the Local Government Areas that make up the federal constituency.
A statement issued by the media team of the federal lawmaker on Thursday noted that “Constituents have already begun confirming receipt of the funds through Desmike Global Services with many expressing appreciation for Hon Osoba’s kindness.”
Similarly, the Senator Representing Kogi West Senatorial District, Sunday Karimi has gifted 25 Cows, 150 Rams alongside cash worth millions of Naira to Muslim faithful to enable them celebrate this year’s Eid El Kabir across the Senatorial District.
The Senator urged faithful to use the occasion of the Eid El Kabir to intensify prayers for the success of the administration present administration of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu and for other leaders in positions of authority at all levels.
While wishing adherents a joyous occasion of Eid El Kabir,he urged adherents not to forget the profound significance of sacrifice and to demonstrate the valuable lessons of obedience that the season exemplifies.
He congratulated Nigerian Muslims and other faithful on this occasion of the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir, congratulated them for witnessing yet another celebration of Eid El Kabir.
Police deployments
Meanwhile,the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate deployment of patrol teams and intensified security operations nationwide ahead of the Eid-el-Adha celebrations.
The IG also directed all Zonal Assistant Inspectors-General of Police, Commissioners of Police, and Tactical Commanders to bolster security at Eid prayer grounds, recreational centres, and other public places to forestall any breach of peace during the festive period.
In a statement on Thursday by the Force spokesman, Muyiwa Adejobi, the IG emphasised the importance of maintaining a secure environment for worshippers and all citizens celebrating the festival, urging commanders to ensure visibility patrols, intelligence-led surveillance, and strategic stop-and-search operations are effectively carried out.
“Commissioners of Police, Tactical Commanders, and their supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police have been instructed to strengthen security at Eid prayer grounds, recreational centres, and other public spaces.
“Additionally, officers have been tasked with conducting intelligence-led patrols, surveillance operations, and strategic stop-and-search duties to forestall any security threats during the festive period,” the statement partly read.
While extending warm felicitations to the Muslim Ummah across the country, Egbetokun encouraged Nigerians to embrace the virtues of tolerance, compassion, and peaceful coexistence, especially in the spirit of the holy month of Dhul-Hijjah.
Reaffirming the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to upholding public safety, law, and order during and beyond the festive season, the IG wished all Muslim faithful a joyous and peaceful Eid celebration.
“The IGP acknowledges the spiritual significance of this period, urging all Nigerians to sustain good virtues of tolerance, compassion and emulating the righteous ways of past prophets as encouraged in Islam, which can bolster the promotion of peaceful coexistence and national unity.
“The IGP also wishes all Muslim faithful a joyous and peaceful Eid-al-Adha celebration, encouraging them to use this period to reflect on the values of patience, kindness, and national cohesion as the country continues to strive for peace and progress,” the statement added.
Heavy traffic
Meanwhile, there was heavy traffic on major highways across the country on Thursday as thousands of Muslim faithful travelled ahead of the Sallah celebration.
The surge in movement led to significant congestion with traffic gridlocks reported at the Mararaba-Abuja road, Sabon Wuse, Kaduna, Ilorin, Kwara State and across other highways and cities.
Travellers spent hours on the Abuja-Kaduna highway before security operatives cleared the road.
The spokesperson for the Federal Road Safety Corps, Olusegun Ogungbemide, acknowledged the challenges and assured that measures were being taken to ease the logjam.
According to him, personnel have been deployed to critical points to manage the situation.
Ogungbemide noted that the Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, was on the ground at Jere along the Kaduna road, directly coordinating traffic management efforts.
Ogungbemide told The PUNCH, “Of course, there is gridlock, but we are doing everything possible to ease the movement of people. Such roads include the Mararaba-Abuja road due to construction work. Also, Sabon Wuse, Kaduna road.
“The Corps Marshal Shehu Mohammed was personally involved in traffic management at Jire along Kaduna road.”
Traffic gridlock was also reported in Ilorin, Kwara State, on Thursday, following the influx of people in the state.
This was as shoppers flooded the Oja Oba, Ipata, Mandate and Sango markets for last-minute shopping while men were seen at various ram markets in Ilorin, Oke Oyi and Oke Ose.
Reports from Offa, Omu-Aran, Share and other major towns indicated that the cities were agog with visiting indigenes.
Security
To ensure a crisis-free celebration, the Katsina State Police command says it has made adequate deployment across the state.
Our correspondent reports that police patrol vans were stationed at major roundabouts such as Brahim, Liyafa, WTC, and Daura, among others, in the metropolitan areas of Katsina.
In the same vein, the Federal Road Safety Corps said it has deployed personnel and logistics to ensure a hitch-free Eid-el-Kabir celebration in Katsina State.
The Sector Commander, Maxwell Lede, made this known in a statement signed by the Public Education Officer of the command, Shamsudeen Babajo.
The Plateau State Police Command said it had enhanced security measures to ensure a peaceful and safe Eid-El-Kabir celebration for Muslims and residents.
The state Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, in a statement, explained that the command has deployed adequate patrol vans and personnel to mosques, prayer grounds, public parks, and other areas with expected large gatherings.
The CP equally announced a ban on the use of commercial tricycles on Sallah Day and reiterated the existing ban on commercial motorcycles within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis.
“Any person violating this ban will be arrested and face the full weight of the law,” he said
The statement urged parents, community, religious and traditional leaders to sensitise their wards and followers on the importance of maintaining a peaceful environment during the festive period.
It also encouraged the public to report suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest police station or security agency.
In Borno State, security operatives were stationed at major locations, including prayer grounds, major roads, recreational centres, worship centres and other public spaces.
Confirming the readiness of security operatives to ensure a peaceful celebration, the spokesperson for the Borno State Police Command, Nahum Daso, said, “As part of the command’s security framework, both personnel and assets have been strategically deployed across prayer grounds, major roads, recreational centres, worship centres, and other key public spaces.
“In furtherance of a coordinated approach to public safety, the command will be collaborating closely with sister security agencies and other critical stakeholders to ensure a hitch-free celebration.”
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps in Gombe State said it deployed 900 officers and men across strategic locations in the state ahead of the festivities.
The state Commandant, Jibrin Idris, in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Buhari Saad, said, ‘’We are committed to ensuring that residents and visitors to Gombe State celebrate Eid-el-Kabir in a safe and secure environment.’’
He said personnel were deployed in worship grounds, critical infrastructure, and other public spaces across the state.
The operation involves area commanders, divisional officers, tactical unit commanders, and other specialised units.
Similarly, the Police Public Relations Officer, Buhari Abdullahi, said comprehensive security measures have been put in place across all designated Eid prayer grounds and surrounding areas.
“Security personnel will be strategically deployed before, during, and after the celebrations to provide route lining, traffic management, access control, crowd control, and general surveillance
“This deployment will include officers from other security agencies and relevant stakeholders working in close collaboration with event organisers and local authorities.
“All routes leading to and from Eid grounds will be closely monitored and managed to prevent traffic congestion and ensure seamless movement of worshippers and other road users. Access points will be clearly designated, and security checks may be conducted to guarantee public safety,” he added.
The Commissioner of Police, Benue State, Ifeanyi Emenari, ordered water-tight security measures at all worship centres/praying grounds, major highways and flash points across the state.
The command spokesperson, Udeme Edet, stated this in a statement on Thursday.
The Yobe State Security Council assured residents of the state’s commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property during and after the Sallah celebration.
This assurance was made by the State Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Ado, who briefed journalists on the outcome of the State Security Council meeting held in Damaturu on Thursday.
The meeting, chaired by the Secretary to the State Government, Baba Wali, on behalf of Governor Mai Mala Buni, discussed measures to guarantee a peaceful celebration.
Represented by DCP Sale Samaila, Ado said “all necessary arrangements have been put in place to ensure a hitch-free Sallah celebration.”
The council resolved to take proactive measures, including providing adequate security in all Eid grounds across the state’s 17 local government areas.
Meanwhile, in the early hours of Thursday, an armed attack was launched on the Buni Gari community in the Gujba Local Government Area of the state.
The military successfully repelled the attack, according to a source in Damaturu but a resident was killed by a stray bullet during the exchange of gunfire.
In another incident, a commercial bus transporting commuters detonated a road-planted improvised explosive device along the Buratai-Buni Gari route around the same time.
Three deaths were confirmed, and nine individuals sustained various degrees of injuries
“The security situation in Buni Gari is currently under control following the repelled attack. Civilians are advised to remain cautious and avoid the affected routes, which remain under a red alert,” the report added.
The police spokesman, Dungus Abdulkarim, said he was not aware of the incident.
Also, the Kebbi State Police Command spokesperson, Nafiu Abubakar, announced mass deployments of policemen in worship centres and around critical government assets and recreational centres.
The Edo State Police Command assured residents of its preparedness to ensure safety and security during the Sallah celebrations.
The command’s PPRO, Moses Yamu, said additional security measures were in place to guarantee a peaceful and joyous celebration.
At the Oba Market in Benin City, the state capital, on Thursday, residents made last-minute purchases but complained that there wasn’t enough cash to buy what they needed despite the fall in the price of some items.
The traffic was a bit heavy in places like Ring Road, Akpapava, Airport Road, Ibiwe Street and Ekhewuan Road as commercial bus drivers parked indiscriminately to pick passengers, while some roadside hawkers also made vehicular and human movement difficult as they spread their wares on the road sides.
In the same vein, the Commissioner of Police, Kogi State Police Command, Miller Dantawaye, has beefed up security in the state.
The command’s spokesman, William Aya, in a statement, said, “The CP charged Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders as well as Divisional Police Officers to beef up security ahead of the Eid-El-Kabir celebrations to prevent any untold situation in their respective area of responsibilities.’’
The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Kano State Command, said it deployed no fewer than 3,100 personnel to enhance security at various Eid praying grounds, recreational centres and marketplaces during the Sallah festivities.
The Command’s Public Relations Officer, Ibrahim Idris Abdullahi, confirmed the deployment of the personnel in a statement on Thursday.
In a related development, the FRSC in Bauchi State also deployed 820 officials to ensure traffic flow.
The Sector Commander of FRSC in the state, Istifanus Ibrahim, stated this in an interview with newsmen on Thursday.
According to him, the personnel include both regular and special marshals, adding that they had been deployed to strategic locations and prayer grounds for traffic control.
He explained that the corps also deployed 18 patrol vehicles, five ambulances, and six tow trucks to strategic locations across the state for enforcement, traffic control, rescue services and clearing of anticipated road obstructions during the Sallah celebrations.
On its part, the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority mobilised over 350 personnel and operational logistics to strategic locations, including Eid prayer grounds and major roads.
The OYRTMA chairman, Major Adekoya Adesagba (retd.), in a statement, explained that the deployment was aimed at ensuring smooth traffic flow before, during, and after the celebrations.
Adekoya urged motorists to cooperate with traffic officers and exercise patience, particularly around prayer venues.
‘’We appeal to motorists to be patient and follow traffic rules, especially around Eid prayer grounds and major roads,” the chairman said.
Escalating prices
Ram sellers in most cattle markets across Jigawa State recorded low patronage, while potential buyers decry the exorbitant prices of livestock, casting a shadow over the festive season despite the significance of the occasion.
Last year, Niger Republic banned the export of livestock to Nigeria and other countries. This was believed to have contributed to the high prices of livestock in Nigeria.
At the Shuwarin Market, ram prices ranged from N180,000 to N980,000, with the lowest-priced ram selling at N160,000.
Camels and bulls were priced from N780,000 to over N1m.
In Maigatari International Cattle market, Mustapha Nura, a major cattle dealer, told The PUNCH on Thursday that “the border closure has affected our business significantly. We rely heavily on imports from Niger Republic, but the restriction has led to reduced inflow of animals into Nigeria, driving up prices.”
Similarly, Aminu Bashir, another cattle seller at Gujungu Market, lamented, “The situation is dire. Many households may not be able to afford the traditional Eid sacrifice this year due to the high prices. The federal government’s policies since the removal of fuel subsidy in 2023 have exacerbated the hardship.”
Another major cattle seller at Sara Market, Ghali Adamu, echoed similar sentiments.
“The prices this year differed from those of last year, starting from N180,000 to N980,000 for rams. Many buyers are hesitant to purchase due to the high cost,” Adamu noted.
He added that the Federal Government’s policies, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy, had exacerbated the hardship and inflation in the country.
Sharu Labaran expressed their frustration with the high prices.
“I had budgeted N200,000 for two rams, but now the prices are almost double. I’m not sure if we’ll be able to afford one this year,” Labaran said.
Another buyer, Umar Aliko, at the Shuwarin market, said that “the economic situation is tough, and the Federal Government’s policies have made it difficult for us to afford necessities.’’
Ustaz Dauda Muhammad, an Islamic cleric in Dutse, clarified the importance of slaughtering animals on Eid al-Kabir day.
“The slaughtering of animals for Sallah is not compulsory, but rather a Sunnah. As Allah says in the Quran, ‘It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is piety from you that reaches Him.’
Across Kebbi markets, ram dealers battled to make sales as few buyers showed up to make purchases ahead of the celebration.
A shopper at the Kara market in Birnin Kebbi, Muhammad Aminu, told The PUNCH that the high prices were responsible for low sales of rams across the state.
Like other Muslims, Kano residents also flooded major markets for last-minute shopping.
The ancient city’s streets buzzed with heavy human and vehicular traffic, causing gridlock in several areas.
At the Sabon Gari Market, however, traders and buyers alike confirmed that prices of food items remained quite stable despite the usual spike in demand during the festive period.
“A bag of local rice still sells at N70,000, the same as last week. Even cooking oil and spaghetti are selling at regular prices,” said Salisu Buhari, a father of five.
Another shopper, Hafsat Ibrahim, remarked, “It’s a relief that we’re not facing high prices this time. It makes the celebration more enjoyable.”
Traders attributed the price stability to early supply arrangements and reduced transportation bottlenecks.
By Solomon Odeniyi, Dirisu Yakubu, Gift Habib, Haruna Usman, Tunde Oyekola, John Charles, Taiwo Bankole, Adeyinka Adedipe, Hussaini Ibrahim, Ahmed Amshi, Salisu Kabuga, Chima Azubuike, Isah Ojo, James Abraham, Gbenga Odogun, Umar Sani, Tukur Muntari, Gabriel Oshokha and Faith Maji
