The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC), former Senate President David Mark and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, have called for renewed efforts to tackle insecurity, economic hardship and injustice as Muslims celebrate the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir festival.

In separate messages to commemorate the Islamic festival, the leaders urged Nigerians to embrace sacrifice, compassion, peace and national unity while calling on authorities to address worsening security and economic challenges confronting the country.

The Muslim Public Affairs Centre, in a statement marking Eid-ul-Adha 1447 AH, described the celebration as more than a ritual festival, saying it symbolises sacrifice, faith, compassion and justice.

The organisation extended Eid greetings to Muslims across the world and called for renewed commitment to peace, compassion and shared humanity amid growing global and domestic challenges.

MPAC noted that the annual gathering of millions of pilgrims in Makkah for the Hajj remains one of the strongest demonstrations of equality and submission to Allah, where people of different races, nationalities and social classes worship together without distinction.

The group, however, expressed concern over worsening insecurity and economic hardship in Nigeria, saying many citizens were unable to travel home for the Eid celebrations because of fear arising from kidnapping, banditry and violent attacks.

According to the organisation, many Nigerians are living under increasing fear and financial pressure, urging governments at all levels to prioritise policies that would restore security, protect lives and improve economic conditions.

In the statement signed by Disu Kamor, MPAC also condemned the humanitarian crisis in Palestine, describing the situation as “a painful stain on the conscience of the modern world.”

The organisation lamented the destruction of homes, hospitals, schools and refugee shelters, noting that thousands of innocent Palestinians continued to suffer under violence and occupation.

“For the people of Palestine, this is yet another Eid under siege,” the statement said, while urging people across the world to continue speaking against oppression and injustice.

Despite the challenges facing many nations, MPAC said Eid-ul-Adha remains a message of hope, perseverance and faith, drawing lessons from the story of Prophet Ibrahim, Sayyidah Hajar and Prophet Ismail.

The organisation also prayed for pilgrims performing Hajj from Nigeria and other countries, asking Allah to accept their worship and grant them safe return to their families.

MPAC further urged Muslims to move beyond symbolic sacrifice by promoting stronger families, compassionate communities, responsible leadership and a more just society.

Similarly, the National Chairman of the African Democratic Congress, Senator David Mark, said rising insecurity across the country poses a threat to Nigeria’s stability and development.

In a statement signed by his Special Adviser on Communications and Public Affairs, Kola Ologbondiyan, the former Senate President extended Eid-el-Kabir greetings to Nigerians, particularly the Muslim Ummah, describing the celebration as a period of reflection, sacrifice, obedience, compassion and renewed commitment to peace and national unity.

According to him, Eid-el-Kabir reminds humanity of the enduring values of love, tolerance, generosity and devotion to the service of mankind.

“At this critical moment in our national life, I urge Nigerians to continue to uphold these virtues while praying and working for a more united, peaceful and prosperous nation. Our diversity should remain our strength and not a source of division,” Mark said.

He noted that while Nigerians celebrate the festival, it was important to acknowledge the growing insecurity and economic hardship affecting millions of citizens.

“Across many parts of the country, lives and livelihoods continue to be threatened by violence, banditry, kidnapping and communal conflicts, leaving families in fear and uncertainty,” he stated.

Mark called on governments at all levels to intensify efforts towards curbing insecurity through proactive and people-oriented measures capable of guaranteeing the safety of lives and property.

“Security remains the foundation upon which development and national progress can thrive,” he added.

The former Senate President also stressed the need for policies and programmes aimed at addressing poverty, unemployment, inflation and the rising cost of living.

“Citizens deserve not only security but also access to opportunities, social welfare and economic empowerment capable of restoring hope and dignity,” he said.

He further urged leaders to govern with compassion, justice and accountability while encouraging citizens to continue promoting peace, unity and mutual understanding.

Also, the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, commended troops for their gallantry and sacrifices across various theatres of operation in the country.

In his Eid-el-Kabir message to troops and Nigerians, Oluyede prayed for divine strength, protection and victory for security personnel confronting threats to national peace and security.

The CDS also appreciated security and intelligence agencies across Ministries, Departments and Agencies for their continued collaboration in addressing the country’s security challenges.

He felicitated with personnel and civilian staff of the Armed Forces of Nigeria and their families, describing Eid-el-Kabir as a reminder of the sacrifice, faith and obedience exemplified by Prophet Ibrahim.

“In the same spirit, we are reminded that love for country, sacrifice for one another and commitment to peace and unity are noble virtues that ultimately lead to harmony, stability and prosperity for our nation,” Oluyede said.

He also thanked President Bola Tinubu for his support to the Armed Forces, expressing optimism that the nation would continue to thrive under his leadership.

“I wish all Nigerians a peaceful and blessed Eid-el-Kabir celebration. God bless the Armed Forces of Nigeria and long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he added.