Buhari Commends Nigerians for Making Sacrifices

Tobi Soniyi in Abuja

President Muhammadu Buhari has commended Nigerians for making sacrifices in the face of what he described as “temporary economic and social challenges”.

In his message to mark the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations nationwide, Buhari appealed to the rich to remember the millions of Nigerians suffering deprivation because of the violence perpetrated by terrorists.

He felicitated with‎ all Nigerians especially the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of this year’s Eid-el-Fitr, marking the completion of the Ramadan fast.

He said: “I am not unaware of what Nigerians are going through and I want to use this medium to commend the amazing sacrifices of Nigerians in the face of the temporary economic and social challenges and also reassure Nigerians that my administration is working assiduously hard towards providing basic needs and other amenities.”

He also used the occasion to reaffirm his commitment to the fight against corruption.
Buhari said he would not relent in the fight against corruption and would ensure that all appropriate and legal measures are deplored to root out the malaise.

He also commended the Armed Forces and security agencies for the gains recorded in the fight against terrorists and the rescue of hostages in the North-eastern part of the country.

He also appealed for the support, understanding and patience of all Nigerians and international partners, as the country explores the fastest means to end the economic sabotage in the Niger Delta and amicably resolve the conflicts within the region.
He said:‎ “I promise you all better days ahead even as we remain grateful for your unflinching support to our administration.‎”

Buhari congratulated Muslims in Nigeria and around the world on the successful completion of the fast, prayer and almsgiving in obedience to the Divine Command.
He prayed that the Almighty Allah would reward their sacrifices with increased blessings and a more prosperous future.

He expressed the hope that all true followers of Islam had been rejuvenated on the true meaning and essence of life and through the teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
He said: “We have learnt to imbibe the virtues of piety, sacrifice, love, self-denial and good conduct in our daily relationship with one another.

“As we celebrate another Eid-el-Fitr, I admonish all patriotic Nigerians to uphold these lessons and also appreciate the numerous material and human blessings God has endowed us with.

“Let us learn to show gratitude, respect and tolerance to one other, irrespective of our religion, tribe, language and political leanings, as we forge ahead to build on our strengths and opportunities to make Nigeria great again.”

He said he was joined last Monday by Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Yakubu Dogara, and other government officials to host the Iftar reception at the State House with Nigerians of different backgrounds including internally displaced persons (IDPs), artisans and physically-challenged persons.