Muslims across Nigeria gathered for special Juma’at services on Friday, September 25, to pray for peace, stability, and prosperity as the country prepares to mark its 66th Independence Anniversary on October 1. The prayers, held at the National Mosque in Abuja and central mosques in state capitals, were part of the Federal Government’s low-key programme for the anniversary. The anniversary is being marked under the theme, “From reforms to stability, consolidating Nigeria’s renewed hope for shared prosperity.”
At the National Mosque in Abuja, Imam Professor Luqman Zakariyah delivered a khutbah that went beyond prayers for Nigeria, challenging both government and citizens to recognise their responsibilities in building the country. He identified knowledge, responsible management of resources, sincerity in the discharge of duties, and love for one another as important foundations for national development. The Imam also called on the government to strengthen education, arguing that it should not be limited to university certificates but should also transmit Nigerian culture and values to younger generations.
The Federal Government’s message at the National Mosque was closely connected to the anniversary theme, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, telling Nigerians that the country was moving towards greater development and prosperity. The President urged Nigerians not to lose hope despite the difficulties of recent years, describing Nigeria at 66 as a mature nation whose journey since independence had included both challenges and opportunities.
In Lagos, the Special Juma’at service at the Lagos Secretariat Community Central Mosque, Alausa, produced a clear message about the relationship between government and citizens. Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, identified disunity and the absence of a shared national purpose as major obstacles to Nigeria’s progress. The Chief Imam of the mosque, Sheikh Yunuss Al-Imam, reinforced the message by urging Nigerians to reject tribalism and religious intolerance and promote peaceful coexistence and mutual respect.
In Kaduna, the emphasis at the Sultan Bello Mosque was on trust, truthfulness, and integrity in public and private life. The Deputy Chief Imam, Sheikh Abdullahi Aliyu, reminded political leaders and citizens that positions of authority and material possessions are temporary and constitute trusts for which people will ultimately be accountable. The special prayers also sought peace, stability, and economic prosperity for Nigeria and Kaduna State, with prayers for President Tinubu and Governor Uba Sani.
In Ogun State, the government’s message at the Central Mosque, Kobiti, Abeokuta, centred on peace, responsible citizenship, and maintaining hope despite economic difficulties. Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele, called on Islamic scholars and religious leaders to use their pulpits to promote peace, tolerance, honesty, compassion, and responsible citizenship. The sermon by Alfa Mohammed Begori also addressed the economic pressure facing Nigerians, with a call on the Federal Government to take urgent steps to reduce the cost of fuel and essential commodities.
The special prayers and messages from across the country, including Kwara and Rivers states, emphasised the importance of national unity, responsible leadership, and good citizenship. The Muslim faithful were urged to pray for and support leaders so that they can succeed in their responsibilities, while also promoting peace, tolerance, and honesty. President Tinubu is expected to deliver a nationwide broadcast on October 1, as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
Key points
- Muslims across Nigeria pray for peace, stability, and prosperity as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary
- Imams and government representatives call for national unity, responsible leadership, and good citizenship
- The anniversary is being marked under the theme, “From reforms to stability, consolidating Nigeria’s renewed hope for shared prosperity”
