The Federal Government of Nigeria has officially declared Monday and Tuesday as public holidays to mark the celebration of Eid-ul-Adha this year. This announcement was made by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Dr. Aishetu Gogo Ndayako, in a statement released on today, Friday, 14 June 2024. The declaration was made on behalf of the Federal Government by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who extended his heartfelt congratulations to all Muslim faithful in Nigeria and those in the diaspora on the occasion of this significant Islamic festival.
Eid-ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most important holidays in the Islamic calendar. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God’s command; God provided a ram to sacrifice instead. This act of sacrifice is celebrated by Muslims around the world, symbolizing their own willingness to give up something valuable in obedience to God’s will. The holiday also includes the performance of the Hajj pilgrimage, one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which takes place in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
In his statement, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo emphasized the importance of the values exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim, urging the Muslim community to continue to embrace the spirit of peace, kindness, and sacrifice. He highlighted the significance of using this period for reflection and prayer for the unity, prosperity, and stability of Nigeria. The Minister’s message was clear: this is a time for the nation to come together, support each other, and work towards a more harmonious and prosperous future.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo also took the opportunity to reassure Nigerians of the current administration’s dedication to safeguarding the lives and property of all citizens. He conveyed the administration’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to creating a secure and thriving environment for all Nigerians. The Minister’s assurance aimed to instill confidence in the government’s ongoing efforts to address security challenges and promote economic growth and development across the nation.
The declaration of the Eid-ul-Adha holiday was further supported by an earlier announcement from the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Sa’ad Abubakar. On June 7, the Sultan declared that Sunday, June 16, would be observed as Eid-el-Kabir day. This announcement followed the confirmation that Friday marked the first day of Dhul Hijjah, the final month in the Islamic calendar, during which the Hajj pilgrimage and Eid-ul-Adha occur. The Sultan’s declaration was conveyed through a statement by the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs to the Sultanate Council, Sambo Junaid, in Sokoto State.
In his message, the Sultan of Sokoto extended his felicitations to the Muslim community in Nigeria, wishing them Allah’s guidance and blessings. He urged Muslims to continue praying for the peace, progress, and development of the country. The Sultan’s message resonated with the Minister of Interior’s call for unity and reflection, reinforcing the importance of collective prayers and actions towards national development. His statement also included well wishes for a joyous and spiritually fulfilling Eid-ul-Adha celebration, invoking Allah’s acceptance of the religious deeds performed during this holy period.
Eid-ul-Adha is traditionally marked by the sacrifice of an animal, such as a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, which is divided into three parts: one-third for the family, one-third for friends and relatives, and one-third for the less fortunate. This act of giving and sharing embodies the principles of charity and community spirit that are central
