Emulate Prophet Ibrahim, Buhari urges Nigerians in Eid-el-Kabir message

President Muhammadu Buhari says Nigeria will make rapid progress on all fronts if citizens re-enact the exemplary virtues typified by Prophet Ibrahim.

In his message to Nigerians on the Eid-el Kabir celebrations, Buhari urged everyone to keep prejudice aside and work to foster the bonds of unity among one another.

The President, who is currently in his hometown, Daura, in Katsina State, promised that his administration will not rest on its oars “until Nigerians see the country of their dream”.

He commended Nigerians who fervently prayed for him while he was away in the United Kingdom on medical treatment.

“Indeed your fervent and sincere prayers, which cut across religion, political and ethnic divides, has energised me to re-dedicate myself and this administration to the task of building a great Nigeria,” he said.

“On the joyous occasion of this year’s Eid-El-Kabir celebration, I appeal to all Nigerians to rise against the odds, keep our prejudices aside and strengthen the bonds of friendship and unity to keep our country together.

“For Muslims all over the world, this celebration is to commemorate the trials and triumph of Prophet (Abraham) Ibrahim.

“As we celebrate, I sincerely believe that our nation can make rapid progress on all fronts if we re-enact the exemplary virtues, typified by Prophet (Abraham) Ibrahim, through his sacrifice, patience, steadfastness, generosity and obedience to Allah’s command and constituted authority.

“We must learn to see ourselves as brothers and sisters from the same heritage, who must come to terms with the African proverb that ‘a family tie is like a tree, it can bend but it cannot break.’”

Buhari also congratulated Nigerian Muslim faithful who are currently in Saudi Arabia to participate in this year’s Hajj.

The federal government had already announced Friday and Monday as public holidays to mark the Sallah celebrations