This was announced in a statement on Friday signed by the Ministry of Interior’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Aishetu Ndayako, which quoted the minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, as congratulating all Muslim Ummah both at home and in the diaspora on the occasion.
The Nigerian government has declared Monday, June 17 and Tuesday, June 18, 2024, as holiday for the celebration of 2024 Eid-el-Kabir festival.
This was announced in a statement on Friday signed by the Ministry of Interior’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Aishetu Ndayako, which quoted the minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, as congratulating all Muslim Ummah both at home and in the diaspora on the occasion.
Tunji-Ojo called on the Muslim Ummah to continue to imbibe the spirit of peace, kindness and sacrifice, as exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim (Peace be upon Him) and to also use the period to pray for unity, prosperity and the stability of the country.
The statement added, “The minister reiterated that President Bola Tinubu’s administration was committed to safeguarding the lives and property of all Nigerians.
“He further enjoined all Muslim faithful and Nigerians in general to support, cooperate and join hands with the president in his sustained efforts to diversify the economy and progressively accelerate the pace of the nation’s economic recovery.
“While wishing the Muslim Ummah a happy Eid-el-Kabir celebration, the Minister advised all Nigerians to take responsibility in the resolve to hand over a prosperous Nigeria to the nation’s children.”
SaharaReporters had earlier reported how ram sellers across Nigeria were groaning over low patronage as the high cost of the animals, driven by the removal of fuel subsidy and escalating insecurity in the country.
The removal of fuel subsidy has led to a rise in transportation costs, further exacerbating the situation for traders who must transport rams across the country.
This year, many sellers report a sharp decline in sales, with consumers finding it increasingly difficult to afford buying rams for Eid-el-Kabi festival.
Eid-el-Kabir, also known as the "Feast of Sacrifice," is an annual festival celebrated on the 10th day of the Islamic lunar month of Dhul Hijja, marked by the slaughtering of rams.,
A survey by SaharaReporters in Kwara State markets reveals a very poor turnout. Ram sellers lamented the high cost of logistics, compounded by the insecurity in the country.
Speaking with SaharaReporters in Ilorin, Kwara State, the chairman of the Emirate group and a ram seller at Ipata market, Mallam Dauda Omolabi, said that insecurity and transportation were the major reasons why the cost of rams had increased compared to last year.