Thousands of Muslim worshippers gathered at Ilorin Central Praying Ground on Wednesday for Eid-al-Adha celebrations. Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq joined government officials, traditional rulers and party leaders for the two-raka'at prayer service.
After prayers, the governor spoke briefly with reporters about the occasion. "We thank Almighty Allah for letting us witness another Eid," he said.
AbdulRazaq's message centered on three things: peace, unity, and national progress. He wished all worshippers "Eid Mubarak" as they celebrated the festival.
Citizens must remain united to build a better nation, according to him. He urged Nigerians to work together toward shared prosperity.
Senator Saliu Mustapha, the Turaki of Ilorin, also addressed the crowd. He prayed that Allah would accept their worship and grant them long lives to celebrate future Eids.
Alhaji Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, the Emir of Ilorin, called for continuous peace in Kwara State and Nigeria. He emphasized the need for unity among all residents of his emirate.
Sheikh Abdullah AbdulHameed, the Imam Imale, preached during the service about Eid's spiritual lessons. He urged worshippers to reflect on the festival's deeper meaning.
Notable attendees included former Vice Chancellor Prof. Shuaib Oba AbdulRaheem and retired Justice Alfa Belgore.
Dr. Bukola Saraki, the Waziri of Ilorin, was also present for prayers.
The Grand Mufti of Ilorin, Sheikh Sulaiman Faruk Onikijipa, participated in the observance. Many senior citizens and statewide title holders joined the celebration as well.