Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has called on citizens to embrace national unity, peaceful coexistence and collective sacrifice as the country pursues economic reforms and development under the administration of Bola Tinubu.
In his Eid-el-Kabir 2026 message, Shettima said the lessons of the Islamic festival remained critical to Nigeria’s efforts to achieve stability, peace and inclusive growth, urging Nigerians to draw inspiration from the values of faith, obedience, sacrifice and compassion exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.
According to a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President described the festive period as a time for reflection and support for vulnerable members of society.
“This is a period of sober reflection, a season of reaching out to the indigent among us, of building bridges of brotherhood and sisterhood,” Shettima said.
He added: “What binds us together supersedes whatever divides us. As a nation, we must continue to strengthen the spirit of unity, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence for our collective progress and prosperity.”
The Vice President warned that national development could not flourish in an atmosphere of division and mistrust, calling on Nigerians to rise above ethnic, religious and political differences in order to tackle the country’s shared challenges.
Shettima also reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing insecurity, stabilising the economy, creating jobs and expanding opportunities for citizens across the country.
“Our nation is undergoing a process of renewal and transformation aimed at securing a more stable and prosperous future for generations to come,” he said.
“While the reforms may require patience and sacrifice, they are necessary steps toward rebuilding a stronger Nigeria.”
The Vice President appealed for continued public support for President Tinubu’s reform agenda, arguing that unity of purpose and shared sacrifice would be essential in overcoming insecurity, poverty and social challenges.
He further assured Nigerians that the government remained determined to restore peace and security nationwide, while commending members of the armed forces and security agencies for their service and sacrifices.
Expressing optimism about the country’s future, Shettima said: “No matter how long the night may seem, dawn will surely come. Nigeria is steadily advancing on the path of peace, recovery, and sustainable development.”
