Muslim faithful in Abuja joined millions across the world to celebrate Eid el-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, a period devoted to fasting, prayer and spiritual reflection.
At the Ansar-ur-Deen Central Mosque, Maitama, Abuja, worshippers gathered in large numbers for the special Eid prayers, giving thanks to Allah for the grace to complete the month-long fast.
The atmosphere at the mosque was filled with reverence and joy as men, women and children dressed in colourful outfits exchanged greetings and joined in prayers to mark the significant Islamic celebration.
In his sermon, the Chief Imam of Ansar-ur-Deen Central Mosque, Maitama, Abuja, Professor Musa Olaofe, urged Muslims to sustain the lessons of Ramadan by upholding values such as love, discipline, sacrifice, peace and charity.
He said Eid el-Fitr should not only be seen as a period of celebration, but also as a time for sober reflection on the need for unity, compassion and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians.
Professor Olaofe also called on the faithful to continue praying for the peace, progress and stability of the country, while remembering the less privileged and extending acts of kindness to those in need.
“Eid el-Fitr is a celebration of gratitude to Allah for the strength and grace to complete the fasting period. It is also a reminder that the lessons of Ramadan — self-discipline, sacrifice, love and devotion — must remain with us even after the month has ended,” he said.
Speaking with RBN after the prayers, Bashiru Shehu described Eid el-Fitr as a joyful occasion for Muslims and a moment to appreciate Allah’s mercy and guidance throughout Ramadan.
According to him, the celebration also serves as an opportunity for Muslims to strengthen unity among themselves and promote peaceful relations with people of other faiths.
“We are happy to witness another Eid el-Fitr after the successful completion of Ramadan. It is a time of thanksgiving, love and sharing. We must continue to live in peace with one another and pray for our country,” he said.
Another respondent, Habeeb Abiodun, said Eid el-Fitr remains a season of thanksgiving, forgiveness and reconciliation, adding that the values learnt during Ramadan should continue to shape the conduct of Muslims in society.
He stressed the need for Nigerians to embrace unity beyond ethnic and religious differences, noting that peace remains essential for national growth and development.
“Ramadan has taught us patience, self-control and care for others. Eid is a time to celebrate, but it is also a time to remember that we need one another. Nigerians must remain united and work together for a better future,” he said.
Also speaking, Mrs Sabila and Aishatu Mohammed said the celebration provided an opportunity for families, friends and neighbours to come together in love and harmony.
They noted that beyond the festivities, Eid el-Fitr should encourage Muslims to remember the needy, support one another and continue to pray for peace and progress in the country.
“This celebration is not just about food and new clothes; it is about gratitude, kindness and togetherness. We should continue the spirit of giving, especially to the less privileged, and promote peaceful coexistence in our communities,” Aishatu said.
The Eid celebration at the Ansar-ur-Deen Central Mosque ended with prayers for national unity, peace and development, as worshippers expressed hope for a more prosperous and harmonious Nigeria.
By Flora Iweanya