The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has called on Nigerian leaders to urgently address worsening insecurity and economic hardship in the country as Muslims across the world celebrate Eid-al-Adha.

In its Eid message for 1447AH, the organisation said the celebration goes beyond slaughtering animals and exchanging greetings, describing it as a period that reflects sacrifice, compassion and justice.

MPAC’s Executive Chairman, Disu Kamor, said the lessons of Prophet Ibrahim’s obedience to Allah remain relevant in a world facing hardship, conflict and inequality.

According to him, Eid-ul-Adha reminds humanity that meaningful change requires sacrifice, courage and compassion.

“As over two billion Muslims across the world gather in celebration of Eid-ul-Adha, humanity is once again confronted with two powerful realities — the timeless lesson of sacrifice taught by Prophet Ibrahim and the urgent need for compassion, justice and shared humanity in a deeply troubled world,” he said.

The group noted that millions of pilgrims from different races, nationalities and social classes had gathered in Makkah for Hajj, making the pilgrimage one of the greatest symbols of equality and submission to Allah.

It said the gathering reflects a rare moment where people, regardless of status or wealth, stand together in worship without worldly distinctions.

Despite the significance of the celebration, MPAC expressed concern over the condition of many families across the world who are unable to celebrate peacefully because of violence, fear and economic struggles.

The organisation said insecurity in Nigeria has continued to create fear among citizens, with kidnapping, banditry and violent attacks making travel unsafe for many people during the festive period.

According to the statement, many Nigerians who would normally travel to reunite with their families for Eid are now forced to stay away because of safety concerns.

MPAC also raised concerns about the rising cost of living, saying many households are struggling under severe economic pressure with little hope of immediate relief.

The organisation urged leaders at all levels to prioritise policies that would restore security, protect lives and improve the economic wellbeing of citizens.

“Nigerians cannot keep living in fear and hardship. Policies that restore security, protect lives and bring economic dignity back to the people must become the urgent priority,” the statement added.

MPAC also spoke on the crisis in Palestine, saying the situation is a painful tragedy and a stain on the conscience of the modern world.

The group condemned the continued destruction of homes, hospitals, schools and refugee shelters in Gaza and called on the international community to speak against oppression and injustice.

It said the suffering of innocent Palestinian men, women and children remains heartbreaking, especially during a period meant for peace and celebration.

“For the people of Palestine, this is yet another Eid under siege,” the statement said.

The organisation added that silence in the face of oppression amounts to complicity and urged people across the world to continue advocating for justice and the protection of innocent lives.

MPAC, however, said Eid-ul-Adha remains a message of hope, perseverance and faith, noting that the story of Prophet Ibrahim, Sayyidah Hajar and Prophet Ismail teaches believers to remain steadfast during difficult times.

The group also prayed for Nigerian and international pilgrims performing Hajj this year, asking Allah to accept their pilgrimage and return them safely to their families.

“As we celebrate Eid-ul-Adha 1447AH, let us move beyond symbolic sacrifice and commit ourselves to building stronger families, compassionate communities, responsible leadership and a more just society,” Kamor said.

He prayed for peace, prosperity and healing in Nigeria and across the world, while wishing Muslims a peaceful Eid celebration.