The Nation’s Security Chiefs on Sunday congratulated Muslim faithful on the successful completion of this year’s holy month of Ramadan and urged unity and peaceful coexistence among civilians to address the security challenges confronting the country.
In their respective messages released to journalists in Abuja to mark the Eid-ul-Fitr celebration, the Security Chiefs emphasised the importance of Muslims and all Nigerians coming together in unity and embracing the core principles of love and togetherness essential for national progress, peace, and stability.
In his message, the National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, called for solidarity against national security threats, highlighting the virtues of resilience, discipline, and sacrifice embodied in the sacred period of the holy month and the Eid-ul-Fitr.
According to him, “Your cooperation in the fight against terrorism and other threats remains vital in ensuring peace and stability across our nation, particularly in our commitment to a ‘whole-of-government and whole-of-society’ approach.
“Therefore, the continued collaboration between the government, religious leaders, communities, and security agencies in combating terrorism and extremism remains paramount.”
Mallam Nuhu further noted that the celebration of Eid-ul-Fitr provides an opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to peace and national unity.
“It is thus pertinent for Muslims and all Nigerians to come together in unity, embracing the core principles of love and togetherness that are essential for our national progress. Peace, unity, and compassion are the core values underpinning the true spirit of Eid-ul-Fitr; therefore, Nigerians must continue to uphold the virtues of empathy, kindness, and tolerance during the festivities and beyond.”
The NSA urged all Nigerians to remain vigilant against forces that threaten the nation’s peace, saying, “Together, we can build a Nigeria where all citizens, irrespective of their faith, can live in harmony and prosperity.
“Our diversity is our strength, and despite the challenges we face as a nation, we remain united by a shared commitment to peace and stability.
“The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and this office uphold these values, and under my leadership, we are dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all Nigerians, regardless of background or faith.
“We remain steadfast in our mission to enhance Nigeria’s resilience against terrorism and violent extremism while promoting peaceful coexistence and national security. I wish you all a happy Eid-ul-Fitr celebration.”
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General S.G. Musa, prayed to Almighty Allah to accept all the prayers offered during Ramadan and to bring peace and harmony to the country.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt Gen Olufemi Oluyede, prayed that the sacrifices and prayers offered during Ramadan would bring peace, joy, and happiness to the Nigerian Army family and the nation at large.
The Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral E.I. Ogalla, noted that the period was one of joy, gratitude, and unity, stating, “May the Eid bring peace, joy, and endless happiness to all Nigerians and the nation in general.”
Similarly, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, extended his felicitations to Muslim faithful and urged them to carry forward the kindness and compassion imbibed during Ramadan into their daily activities, enabling the nation to witness rapid development and progress.
Additionally, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, extended warm greetings to the Muslim Ummah across the country and assured them of adequate security for a peaceful celebration.
In a statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP acknowledged the spiritual significance of this period and urged all Nigerians to sustain the virtues of self-discipline, tolerance, and compassion fostered during Ramadan to promote peaceful coexistence and national unity.
According to the statement, the IGP directed heightened security deployments across the country to ensure a safe celebration.
The statement explained that Commissioners of Police (CPs), Tactical Commanders, and their supervisory Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) 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.
While urging Nigerians to remain law-abiding and celebrate in an atmosphere of peace and brotherhood, the IGP called on the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities or individuals to the nearest security agency.
ALSO READ FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE