Eid-el-Kabir: Your prayers energise me, Buhari tells Nigerians

PRESIDENT Muhammadu Buhari has thanked Nigerians who prayed for him during the course of his illness, saying that the prayers which he noted cut across religious divides, have energized him to rededicate himself to the task of rebuilding the country.

In his Eid-el-Kabir message made available to State House correspondents in Abuja on Thursday, he felicitated with all citizens particularly the Muslim faithful on the celebration of the religious festival.

He congratulated “our Muslim brothers and sisters” who are currently in Saudi Arabia to participate in the rites of the Hajj.

Buhari observed: “From the outset, I want to use this opportunity to thank all Nigerians who prayed for my recovery and have continued to extend their goodwill and support after my return to the country.

“Indeed your fervent and sincere prayers, which cut across religion, political and ethnic divides, has energised me to re-dedicate myself and this administration to the task of building a great Nigeria.”

The president appealed to Nigerians to set aside prejudices and strengthen bonds of friendships and unity for the sake of the country.

He added: “On the joyous occasion of this year’s Eid-El-Kabir celebration, I appeal to all Nigerians to rise against the odds, keep our prejudices aside and strengthen the bonds of friendship and unity to keep our country together.

“For Muslims all over the world, this celebration is to commemorate the trials and triumph of Prophet (Abraham) Ibrahim.

“As we celebrate, I sincerely believe that our nation can make rapid progress on all fronts if we re-enact the exemplary virtues, typified by Prophet (Abraham) Ibrahim, through his sacrifice, patience, steadfastness, generosity and obedience to Allah’s command and constituted authority.

“We must learn to see ourselves as brothers and sisters from the same heritage, who must come to terms with the African proverb that ‘‘a family tie is like a tree, it can bend but it cannot break.’’

“Once again, I assure you that this administration, which has made the security, economic well-being and prosperity of all Nigerians its priority, will not rest on its oars until we see the Nigeria of our dream.”

He wished everyone happy Sallah celebrations.