By Abimbola Ogunnaike
President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, 10 April, 2024 called on Nigerians to keep hope alive in his administration’s efforts to make their lives better and meaningful.
Tinubu explained that without this hope, his government would lack the support it requires to deliver on its Renewed Hope Agenda.
”The Renewed Hope Agenda is alive, well and fine, and Nigerians should continue to be very hopeful. Without hope, there is no salvation,” Tinubu told journalists after he joined Muslim faithful to observe Eid-el-Fitr prayers at the Eid Ground at the Dodan Barracks in Lagos.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, disclosed this in a statement he signed Wednesday, 10 April, 2024, titled, ‘President Tinubu to compatriots at Eid prayers: Love Nigeria and defend its integrity.’
While urging Nigerians to remain patriotic citizens, Tinubu said he is determined to continue implementing the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration, which is aimed at bringing prosperity to Nigerians.
He encouraged Muslims celebrating the conclusion of Ramadan to extend the values of sacrifice and resilience beyond the fasting period.
Also, he emphasised the need for Nigerians to prioritise the exhibition of love for their country.
”The resilience and sacrifice that we have shown and made during these months should be preserved. Be a kind and cheerful giver.
“We must love our country more than any other country because that is the only one we have.
”We must continue to protect the integrity of our government and leadership…Without hope, there is no development. Without hope, there is no life. Eid Mubarak,’’ the President said at the end of the prayers led by the Chief Imam of Lagos State, Sheikh Sulaiman Abou-Nolla.
Earlier in his sermon, the Chief Imam urged Nigerians to shun all acts of violence, ensure peaceful co-existence, and continue to have faith in the country.
He asked those in leadership positions to remain faithful to their oaths of office and work towards alleviating the suffering of the less privileged.
He preached, “Let us not forget our brothers and sisters in Gaza and other areas of conflict.”
Sheikh Abou-Nolla also offered prayers of God’s guidance, wisdom, and protection for President Tinubu and the Lagos State government, as well as for peace and stability in the country.
