Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike has called on residents of Abuja to embrace the values of sacrifice, discipline and civic responsibility as Muslims across Nigeria celebrate the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir festival.
In his Eid-el-Kabir message to residents of the nation’s capital, Wike said the religious celebration offers an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the importance of obedience, selflessness, and commitment to the common good.
According to the minister, the lessons of Eid-el-Kabir, rooted in the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s faith and sacrifice, should inspire residents to contribute positively toward the development of the Federal Capital Territory and Nigeria as a whole.
“Eid-el-Kabir goes beyond celebration,” Wike said. “It reminds us of the importance of sacrifice, discipline, and placing the collective interest above personal desires.”
He urged residents to demonstrate these values through responsible citizenship, including obeying traffic regulations, maintaining environmental cleanliness, complying with building guidelines, and paying taxes promptly.
The minister explained that Abuja’s growth into a modern and globally competitive capital city depends not only on government projects but also on the cooperation and civic attitude of residents.
“If Eid-el-Kabir teaches sacrifice for a greater purpose, then Abuja represents what sacrifice can achieve — a city built on peace, order, and shared prosperity,” he said
Wike reaffirmed the commitment of the FCT Administration to ongoing infrastructure development projects across the city center and satellite communities. He disclosed that several major projects designed to improve transportation, housing access, and economic growth would soon be commissioned.
According to him, the projects align with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life for Nigerians.
The minister also appreciated residents for their patience and understanding during ongoing construction activities across Abuja, noting that the temporary inconveniences would result in long-term benefits for the capital territory.
To ensure a peaceful and safe Eid celebration, Wike said the FCT Administration had mobilized relevant security agencies and emergency response teams across the city.
He advised residents to celebrate responsibly while remaining vigilant and cooperative with security personnel to maintain law and order during the festive period.
“We want residents to celebrate with joy and peace while remaining security conscious,” he said. “The safety of lives and property remains a priority for the administration.”
The minister also called for unity, tolerance, and compassion among residents, encouraging citizens to support vulnerable members of society and reject divisive narratives capable of undermining social harmony.
He stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence among people of different ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds, describing Abuja as a symbol of national unity.
“Residents should continue to promote harmony in their homes, workplaces, markets, and places of worship,” Wike added.
This year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration coincides with the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, a development the minister described as significant for families and communities.
Wike described children as the future of the Federal Capital Territory and Nigeria, urging parents, teachers, and community leaders to instill positive values such as honesty, patriotism, discipline, and respect in young people.
“As we reflect on the lessons of sacrifice and obedience, we must also invest in the wellbeing and future of our children,” he said. “A society that protects and nurtures its children secures a stronger future.”
The minister emphasized the importance of quality education, healthcare, and safe environments for children to thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.
He also commended pilgrims from the FCT who participated in the 2026 Hajj exercise for their orderly conduct and urged the Muslim community to continue praying for peace, unity, and prosperity in Nigeria
On behalf of the FCT Administration, Wike extended Eid-el-Kabir greetings to Muslim faithful and all residents of Abuja, wishing them a peaceful, joyful, and spiritually fulfilling celebration.
Analysts say the minister’s message reflects the administration’s broader focus on infrastructure development, social harmony, and civic responsibility as Abuja continues to expand as Nigeria’s political and economic capital.
