By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa
President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to carry the virtues of patience, tolerance, and neighbourliness beyond the just-concluded Ramadan and Lenten seasons, describing them as essential pillars for nation-building.
Speaking to journalists after the Eid-el-Fitr prayers at the Dodan Barracks in Lagos on Friday, the President emphasized that the nation’s progress is contingent upon peaceful coexistence and the active participation of all citizens.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu stressed that the spirit of charity, kindness, and compassion observed during the holy month must not wane with its conclusion.
“We give thanks to God for guiding us through the month of Ramadan. We have accepted the principles, philosophy and doctrine of giving, peace, security and love of our nation, and of neighbours, and kindness to all humanity in any way we can,” the President stated.
He urged Nigerians to extend these lessons year-round, adding: “We must continue not because Ramadan has come and it’s over. We thank almighty God for giving us that month. But the teaching must continue even after Ramadan. We must continue to be our brother’s keeper. Good behaviour, good neighbours, and love for humanity.”
Tinubu used the occasion to underscore that national security is not the sole responsibility of the government, appealing to citizens to take an active role in safeguarding their communities.
“The stability, peace and security of the nation is not just one man’s responsibility. We are all involved,” he said. “Report suspicious movements of people across the length and breadth of the country. These are our responsibilities too.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s religious landscape, the President noted that despite differing faiths, the core objectives remain the same: worship of one God and the cultivation of strong moral character.
He reiterated that nation-building is a collective endeavor and urged Nigerians to cherish the country’s diversity while working deliberately toward unity. He concluded with a prayer for sustained peace across the nation.
