By Wellington Jopelo
The Federal Government has announced Wednesday and Thursday as public holidays for the celebration of Eid-el-Kabir, one of the major festivals observed by Muslims worldwide.
The declaration was made by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, through a statement released by the ministry in Abuja.
According to the government, the holidays are to allow Muslim faithful across the country celebrate the festival with prayers, sacrifice, and family gatherings.
The minister congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and beyond, urging them to reflect on the values of obedience, sacrifice, peace, and compassion which Eid-el-Kabir represents.
He also called on Nigerians to use the period to pray for national unity, security, and economic progress as the country continues to face different challenges.
Eid-el-Kabir, also known as Eid-ul-Adha, is celebrated by Muslims to honour the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command.
The celebration is usually marked with prayers at Eid grounds, sharing of meals, charity to the less privileged, and the slaughtering of animals such as rams and cows.
Following the announcement, preparations intensified across major cities as markets, transport terminals, and livestock centres recorded increased activities ahead of the celebration.
Security agencies have also stepped up monitoring in different parts of the country as large crowds are expected during prayers and holiday travels.
The Federal Government wished Nigerians a peaceful celebration and encouraged citizens to continue promoting religious tolerance and peaceful coexistence.