Abuja, Nigeria – In a statement issued on Friday, the Federal Government has officially declared Monday, June 17th, and Tuesday, June 18th, 2024, as public holidays to mark this year’s Eid-ul-Adha celebration. The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the Federal Government, and was communicated through a statement by the Permanent Secretary, Dr Aishetu Gogo Ndayako.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo
The declaration aims to allow the
Muslim Ummah both within Nigeria and in the Diaspora to celebrate one of the
most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar. Eid-ul-Adha, also known as
the "Festival of Sacrifice," commemorates the willingness of Prophet
Ibrahim (Peace be upon Him) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command.
This festival is marked by the slaughtering of animals such as goats, sheep,
and cows, symbolizing the act of sacrifice, and sharing the meat among family,
friends, and the less privileged.
In his message, Dr. Tunji-Ojo
extended warm congratulations to all Muslims on this auspicious occasion. He
urged them to emulate the virtues of peace, kindness, and sacrifice
demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim. “As we celebrate this important festival, let
us continue to imbibe the spirit of peace, kindness, and sacrifice. These are
the values that Prophet Ibrahim stood for, and they remain relevant to us
today, especially in our quest for unity and national development,” the
Minister stated.
He further called on the Muslim
community to utilize this period to pray for the nation's unity, prosperity,
and stability. The Minister emphasized the importance of collective efforts in
fostering a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria. “The challenges we face as a
nation can only be overcome through collective resolve and unwavering
commitment to peace and unity,” he added.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo reassured Nigerians
of the Federal Government's commitment to ensuring the safety and security of
all citizens. He highlighted the administration's dedication to safeguarding
lives and properties across the country. “The Administration of President Bola
Ahmed Tinubu is resolutely committed to protecting the lives and property of
every Nigerian. We are taking decisive steps to address the security challenges
facing our country, and we remain steadfast in our efforts to create a secure
and conducive environment for all,” the Minister affirmed.
In light of the upcoming holidays,
the Minister advised all Nigerians to take proactive steps to ensure a
prosperous future for the next generation. He emphasized the importance of
personal responsibility and collective action in building a better Nigeria.
“While wishing the Muslim Ummah a happy Eid-ul-Adha celebration, I urge all
Nigerians to take responsibility in our collective resolve to hand over a
prosperous Nigeria to our children. It is our duty to work together to build
the Nigeria of our dreams,” he concluded.
The declaration of public holidays
for Eid-ul-Adha has been met with widespread approval among the Muslim
community and the general public. Many see it as a recognition of the cultural
and religious diversity of Nigeria and an acknowledgement of the important role
that religious festivals play in the lives of its citizens.
Reactions
from the Muslim Community
Leaders and members of the Muslim
community have expressed their appreciation for the government's gesture. The
Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, who is also the
President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA),
commended the government for recognizing the significance of Eid-ul-Adha. He
noted that such acknowledgements help in promoting religious harmony and
national unity.
“I commend the Federal Government
for this thoughtful gesture. It is a sign of respect and recognition for the
Muslim Ummah and the values we hold dear. Eid-ul-Adha is a time for reflection,
sacrifice, and community bonding. The public holidays will enable Muslims to
observe the festival properly and share its blessings with others,” the Sultan
remarked.
Other Islamic leaders also echoed
similar sentiments, urging Muslims to use the period for spiritual rejuvenation
and community service. Sheikh AbdurRahman Ahmad, the National Missioner of
Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, called on Muslims to remember the less
privileged during the celebrations. “Eid-ul-Adha teaches us the importance of
giving and sharing. Let us remember the needy in our communities and extend our
hands of fellowship to them. This is the essence of the festival,” he stated.
Economic
and Social Impact
The declaration of public holidays
for Eid-ul-Adha is also expected to have a positive economic and social impact.
The hospitality industry, including hotels, restaurants, and travel agencies,
often experiences a boost during such festive periods as people travel to
celebrate with their families and friends. Local markets also see increased
activities as people buy animals for sacrifice, foodstuffs, and other items
needed for the celebrations.
Economists have pointed out that
while there is usually a slowdown in business activities during public
holidays, the overall effect can be positive due to increased consumer
spending. “Public holidays, especially those associated with major festivals can stimulate economic activities in various sectors. The increased spending on
goods and services can have a multiplier effect on the economy,” noted Dr Niyi
Akindele, an economist based in Lagos.
Socially, the holidays provide an
opportunity for families and communities to come together, reinforcing social
bonds and promoting cultural heritage. It is a time when people take a break
from their daily routines to engage in communal activities, celebrate their
traditions, and strengthen relationships.
Security
Measures
In preparation for the Eid-ul-Adha
celebrations, security agencies have been put on high alert to ensure the
safety of citizens. The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other
security agencies, has announced measures to maintain law and order during the
festive period.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, assured Nigerians of adequate
security arrangements. “We have put in place comprehensive security measures to
ensure that the Eid-ul-Adha celebrations are peaceful. Our officers will be
deployed in strategic locations to prevent any form of criminal activity and to
provide assistance where needed,” he stated.
Conclusion
As Nigeria prepares to celebrate
Eid-ul-Adha, the declaration of public holidays by the Federal Government is a
significant gesture that underscores the importance of religious and cultural
diversity in the country. It is a time for reflection, sacrifice, and unity,
values that are crucial for national development. The government’s call for
peace, kindness, and responsibility resonates with the spirit of Eid-ul-Adha
and serves as a reminder of the collective effort needed to build a prosperous
and harmonious Nigeria.
With the commitment of the Federal
Government to safeguarding lives and properties and the proactive steps taken
by security agencies, Nigerians can look forward to a peaceful and joyous Eid-ul-Adha
celebration. The festive period provides an opportunity for citizens to come
together, share in the spirit of the season, and work towards a better future
for all.
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