As Muslims across Oyo state, Nigeria and the rest of the world celebrate the 2025 Eid el-Kabir, the Oyo State Interfaith Office has called on citizens to embrace values of the sacred festival beyond the period of celebration, urging all to let its virtues shape everyday conduct and national unity.
In a statement by the Special Assistant on Interfaith Affairs, Reverend Femi Ibikunle, on Friday in Ibadan, the office emphasized that Eid el-Kabir, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, goes beyond feasting and ceremonial rites.
According to the office, the deeper essence of the festival lies in the values of sacrifice, obedience, compassion, and selflessness; virtues that are vital to peaceful coexistence and societal development.
“The celebration of Eid el-Kabir should not be limited to rituals or merriment. It must be a moment for sober reflection on the example of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his unwavering obedience to God.
“This season offers us a golden opportunity to recommit ourselves to the virtues of faith, empathy, sacrifice, and love for one another,” the statement read.
The Oyo Interfaith Office, which is tasked with promoting religious harmony in the state, also called for unity across religious and ethnic lines, encouraging both Muslims and non-Muslims to draw inspiration from the festival’s universal values.
“Now more than ever, Nigeria needs healing, peace, and purpose-driven leadership in our nation. The values celebrated during Eid el-Kabir can serve as a moral compass for citizens and leaders alike at the sun national level like ours.
“Let us allow these principles to influence our relationships, governance, and service to humanity, every day, not just during festive times.”
The statement also appreciated the efforts of religious leaders across Oyo State who continue to promote mutual respect and understanding among adherents of different faiths.
It called on them to use the occasion to remind their congregants of the importance of living out the teachings of their faiths in daily life.
As preparations peak for the festival, the Interfaith Office reminded celebrants to observe safety, show consideration for the less privileged, and remember the spiritual significance of their actions.
“Let the spirit of Eid el-Kabir inspire kindness toward the needy, honesty in our dealings, and a renewed sense of responsibility to our communities. Let us keep the essence of this festival alive, not just in our prayers, but in the way we live each day.”
Rev Ibikunle, who thanked governor Seyi Makinde for his unrelenting support for and commitment to the promotion of interfaith harmony in the state noted that more work needed to be done to sustain the relative peace and tranquility across the state.