Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has urged residents to use the unusual convergence of Eid-el-Kabir and Children’s Day to reinforce values in young people while embracing the discipline and sacrifice demanded by the Sallah season.
In his Eid message, the Minister said the overlap of both events places a responsibility on families and community leaders to strengthen the moral foundation of the next generation.
The charge contained in a statement signed by the Deputy Director of Press, at the Office of the Minister, Rabi Umar, called on parents, teachers, and guardians “to instill the values of sacrifice, honesty, discipline, and patriotism in the young ones.”
It further added that, “As we honor Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience, let us also nurture our children with love, protect their rights, and invest in quality education, healthcare, and safe spaces for them to thrive. A city that secures its children secures its future.”
Wike also asked residents of the Federal Capital Territory to channel the spiritual lessons of Eid-el-Kabir into civic responsibility, noting that the celebration “was a profound reminder of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) unwavering faith and willingness to place the common good above personal desire.”
The minister noted that modern expressions of the obedience taught by Eid require daily sacrifices of patience and discipline. According to him, residents must keep streets clean, obey traffic and building regulations, pay taxes promptly, and cooperate with security agencies.
“If Eid-el-Kabir teaches sacrifice for a greater purpose, then the FCT symbolizes what sacrifice can build: a place of peace, order, and shared prosperity,” the Minister said, adding that Abuja remains a miniature Nigeria built on unity across tribes, tongues, and faiths.
He highlighted ongoing infrastructural work across the territory, saying the projects are designed to support inclusive development in line with the goals of the current administration. He thanked residents for their patience during the construction period.
The Minister reassured the public that the FCTA has fully mobilized relevant security agencies to ensure a peaceful celebration and urged residents to celebrate with vigilance, compassion, and respect for the law.
He also commended the conduct of FCT pilgrims during this year’s Hajj and called on the Muslim community to pray for the peace, unity, and prosperity of the country.
Wike extended his best wishes to all residents, saying, “May Allah (Subhanahu wa ta’ala) accept our sacrifices, answer our prayers, and continue to bless the Federal Capital Territory and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
