Eid-el-Kabir: Kaduna governor urges Nigerians to embrace sacrifice, unity

Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani and former governor Ahmed Makarfi have called on Nigerians to embody the virtues of sacrifice, compassion, peace, and national unity as Muslims celebrate Eid-el-Kabir. In separate goodwill messages, the leaders urged citizens to reflect on the profound lessons of obedience, faith, and peaceful coexistence associated with the Islamic festival.

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Beyond the symbolic act of sacrifice lies the enduring essence of this festival: the triumph of faith over fear, of conviction over comfort, and of compassion over self-interest.

Governor Sani described Eid-el-Kabir as a sacred season for spiritual reflection, sacrifice, and gratitude, symbolizing Prophet Ibrahim's exemplary obedience to Allah's will. He noted that the festival offers enduring lessons in faith, conviction, and compassion, highlighting the triumph of faith over fear and compassion over self-interest.

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It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is piety from you that reaches Him.

Sani stressed that the true essence of Eid lies in sincerity, humility, and piety, rather than material sacrifice, quoting Qur’an 22:37. He urged Nigerians to use the occasion to support the vulnerable and extend kindness to neighbors and those facing hardship, especially amid prevailing economic challenges. "This season calls upon us to deepen our humanity; to stand beside the vulnerable, extend kindness to neighbours, comfort those in distress, and ensure that no member of society is abandoned to hardship or despair," he stated.

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This season calls upon us to deepen our humanity; to stand beside the vulnerable, extend kindness to neighbours, comfort those in distress, and ensure that no member of society is abandoned to hardship or despair.

The governor reaffirmed his administration's commitment to justice, inclusion, peaceful coexistence, and shared prosperity through sustained investments. He commended Kaduna residents for their resilience and commitment to peace, urging them to reject division, intolerance, and violence. Makarfi echoed these sentiments, calling for sober reflection and prayers for peace, security, and prosperity, and emphasizing the need to harness Nigeria's diversity for national development.

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We must not lose sight of the lessons of sacrifice and obedience to the dictates of Allah, which form part of the essence of Eid-el-Adha as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to the command of Allah.