President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Nigerians to pray for bandits and terrorists to abandon violence, expressing hope that those involved in criminal activities may still “rethink and abandon their evil ways.”

In his Eid-el-Kabir message released on Tuesday, the President said the Islamic festival serves as a reminder of faith, sacrifice, obedience and national unity, urging citizens to embrace compassion, tolerance and selflessness in the collective effort to rebuild the country.

Tinubu acknowledged the persistent security challenges confronting parts of the country, noting that despite sustained offensives by the military and intelligence agencies — including recent operations targeting high-profile terrorist elements — some communities continue to suffer attacks.

The President assured Nigerians that his administration remains fully committed to defeating terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality, stressing that affected citizens are “neither abandoned nor forgotten.”

According to him, while security agencies will continue military operations against violent groups, lasting peace also requires moral reflection and genuine repentance from those engaged in acts of violence.

Tinubu said national healing and stability would be strengthened if those involved in criminal activities choose to lay down their arms and embrace peace.

The President also used the occasion to highlight ongoing economic reforms by his administration, stating that Nigeria is gradually witnessing signs of economic recovery, improved investor confidence and renewed optimism.

He concluded by wishing Muslims across Nigeria and around the world a peaceful, joyful and spiritually fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.