As millions of Muslims around the world celebrated the joyous occasion of Eid-El-Fitr, Nigeria joined the global festivities, marking the end of the sacred month of Ramadan with special prayers, feasts, and acts of charity. President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima led the nation in observing Eid prayers in Abuja, underscoring the spirit of unity, gratitude, and compassion that defines this cherished holiday.
Eid-El-Fitr, meaning the Festival of Breaking the Fast, is a time of profound reflection and celebration. It serves as a moment to express gratitude for the blessings of the past month, strengthen bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood, and give back to those in need. The festival begins with special Eid prayers held in mosques and open spaces, followed by joyful gatherings where families share festive meals, exchange gifts, and extend warm greetings.
In Abuja, President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima were joined by notable figures, including the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, and several ministers, for the Eid prayers at the National Eid ground. The event symbolized the collective spirit of the nation, as leaders and citizens alike gathered to mark the conclusion of Ramadan.
Eid-El-Fitr is not merely a celebration of physical sustenance but also a time to reflect on spiritual growth and the importance of compassion. One of the key components of Eid is Zakat al Fitr, a mandatory charitable donation intended to ensure everyone, regardless of their financial situation, can participate in the joy of the celebration. This act of giving embodies the spirit of solidarity that Ramadan emphasizes, reminding believers of their duty to care for those less fortunate.
From the elaborate feasts of South Asia to the festive clothing of Nigeria and the African continent, and the warm gatherings of the Middle East, Eid celebrations vary across cultures, showcasing the rich diversity of the Muslim world. However, the underlying message of unity, gratitude, and compassion remains universal.
A Global Celebration
The timing of Eid-El-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon, in accordance with the Muslim lunar calendar. In Saudi Arabia and some other Gulf Arab states, the Supreme Court declared Sunday, March 30, 2025, as the first day of Eid al-Fitr. The United Arab Emirates and Qatar followed suit, while neighboring Oman and Jordan, along with Shiite-majority Iran, announced that Eid al-Fitr would begin on Monday due to the continued absence of the crescent moon.
In Nigeria, the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, declared Sunday as equivalent to 1 Day of Shawwal 1446AH and Eid-Fitr day across the country. The Sultan, who is the President-General of the Nigeria Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), based his declaration on reports from National Moon Sighting Committees confirming the sighting of the new moon in several locations across Nigeria.
A Time for Reflection and Renewal
The Sultan felicitated with the Nigerian Muslim Ummah, wishing them Allah’s guidance and blessings. He urged Muslims to sustain the lessons learned during the holy month of Ramadan and to continue praying for peace, progress, and development in the country. His message echoed the broader aspirations of the nation, emphasizing the importance of unity and collective effort in overcoming challenges.
In Katsina, where Eid prayers were held with great enthusiasm, the festivities reflected the deep-seated traditions and cultural richness of the region. Similar scenes unfolded across Nigeria, as Muslims gathered to celebrate the culmination of Ramadan with prayers, feasts, and acts of charity.
A Festival of Joy and Solidarity
Eid-El-Fitr is more than just a religious observance; it is a time to come together as a community and celebrate the values of compassion, generosity, and mutual respect. As President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima led the nation in prayers, they set an example of leadership rooted in humility and service. Their presence at the Eid ground underscored the importance of solidarity and shared purpose in fostering national unity.
The holiday also serves as a reminder of the diversity within the Muslim community, both globally and within Nigeria itself. Despite variations in customs and traditions, the core principles of Eid remain constant: gratitude, generosity, and a commitment to making the world a better place.
As the celebrations drew to a close, the spirit of Eid lingered, inspiring individuals and communities to carry forward the lessons learned during Ramadan. The festival of Eid-El-Fitr is a testament to the enduring power of faith, family, and community in bringing people together. It is a time to reflect on the past, look forward to the future, and reaffirm the bonds that unite us all.
In a world often marked by division and discord, Eid-El-Fitr stands as a beacon of hope and harmony. Through acts of kindness, shared meals, and heartfelt greetings, Muslims around the globe demonstrate the transformative power of unity and compassion. As Nigeria joins the global chorus of celebration, the nation looks forward to a brighter future built on the foundations of peace, progress, and prosperity.
