Niger govt orders tight security for peaceful Eid-el-Fitr celebrations

Security agencies in Niger State have been directed to provide watertight security throughout the state to ensure a hitch-free and successful Eid-el-Fitr celebration.

The State Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago, gave the directive while addressing thousands of Muslim faithful gathered for the Eid-ul-Fitr prayer after observing the two raka’at prayers at the Minna Central Eid prayer ground.

Represented by his Deputy, Comrade Yakubu Garba, the Governor emphasised that the state government would not accept any excuses from security agencies for unrest in any part of the state, especially in Minna, the state capital.

Mohammed Umar Bago urged the security agencies to remain vigilant and proactive to ensure uninterrupted Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations for the benefit of all.

The Governor, while calling on wealthy individuals to assist the less privileged, also advised youths to remain law-abiding and not use the festive period as an opportunity to cause havoc, stressing the importance of achieving the desired peace and harmony.

He expressed gratitude to traditional rulers, elders, and critical stakeholders for their advice and prayers, stating that the government would continue to engage with them to benefit from their wealth of experience.

Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political and Strategy, Mohammed Nma Kolo, appreciated the people of Niger State for their support of Governor Mohammed Umar Bago’s administration and called for continued cooperation to ensure success.

Mohammed Nma Kolo assured that the state government would continue to pursue its vision of achieving the “New Niger Agenda.”

In his Khutbah, the new Chief Imam of Minna Central Mosque, Malam Jibril Isah Imam, who performed the Eid prayer for the first time since succeeding the late Malam Isa Fari, congratulated Muslims for witnessing the occasion. He reminded them of the need to sustain and practise the lessons learnt during the Ramadan fast.

Among those who performed the Eid-ul-Fitr prayers were the former Governor of Niger State, Dr Muazu Babangida Aliyu; the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Umar Faruk Bahago; members of the State Executive Council; and the eldest son of the former military president, Dr Mohammed Babangida, among others.

Meanwhile, the Sallah celebrations in Niger State have been peaceful across all 25 Local Government Areas.

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