The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, has called on Nigerians to uphold faith in God and demonstrate patriotism to the country as Muslims across the nation celebrate Eid al-Adha.
Issa-Onilu said the Eid celebration offered an opportunity for citizens to recommit themselves to peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and collective responsibility toward national development.
In a statement issued by Paul Odenyi, Deputy Director of Communication and Media at the agency, the NOA boss noted that the lessons of Eid al-Adha remain highly relevant to Nigeria’s present realities.
He stressed that sacrifice, discipline, compassion, and unity are critical virtues required to foster national growth, stability, and social harmony.
The NOA Director-General urged Muslims to emulate the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim through acts of kindness, charity, and support for the less privileged during the festive period.
While acknowledging government efforts to tackle insecurity across the country, Issa-Onilu appealed to Nigerians to avoid actions capable of threatening public peace and unity before, during, and after the celebrations.
He also called on community leaders, religious organisations, and youth groups to continue supporting initiatives aimed at promoting national values, civic responsibility, and peaceful coexistence.
According to him, meaningful national development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace, collective responsibility, and shared commitment to the progress of the country.
The NOA DG further reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to sustained public enlightenment campaigns designed to promote patriotism, unity, and active citizen participation in nation-building.
He wished Muslims a peaceful and rewarding Eid al-Adha celebration and expressed optimism that the spirit of sacrifice and togetherness associated with the season would inspire Nigerians to work collectively for a more prosperous nation.
