The Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Matawalle, has called on Nigerians to pray fervently for the safety, wisdom, and strength of the country’s armed forces and national leaders.
In his Eid al-Adha message delivered on Thursday, Matawalle reminded citizens that the burden of national security is not for soldiers alone, but a collective responsibility shared by all.
“All praise is due to Almighty Allah who has preserved our lives to witness yet another blessed Eid,” he said. “Let us not only gather in prayer but also commit to peace, solidarity, and sacrifice.”
He extended warm greetings to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the military, and Nigerians at home and abroad on the occasion of Eid.
Matawalle acknowledged the courage of Nigeria’s armed forces, describing them as brave sons and daughters who “leave their families behind, risking their lives daily to protect ours.”
“They fight insurgency in the North, confront banditry in our rural communities, and defend our territorial integrity with honour and selflessness,” he noted.
The minister also praised President Tinubu’s commitment to reforming and modernising Nigeria’s security architecture.
“Under his leadership, we are witnessing new strategies, renewed morale, and a drive to modernise our defence infrastructure,” he said.
Despite progress, Matawalle stressed that lasting security and development can only be achieved through the collective support of the Nigerian people.
“This is not the time for blame, division, or apathy—it is the time for sacrifice, service, and unity,” he stated.
He urged religious and community leaders to preach peace and patriotism during the Sallah festivities, and called on Nigerian youth to reject violence and instead focus on nation-building.
“Your energy must not be wasted on violence or despair. Channel it toward building, innovating, and leading,” he said.
Drawing on the symbolism of Eid al-Adha, he encouraged Nigerians to embrace its spirit of devotion and resilience.
“Let us renew our covenant to build a nation where every child can sleep in peace, where every citizen feels protected, and where our diversity is our strength,” he added.
Matawalle concluded his message with prayers for national progress and divine blessings on the country.
“May Allah accept our sacrifices, forgive our shortcomings, and continue to bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.