As Muslims mark the Eid-el-Kabir festival, the Niger State government has urged adherents to pray for peace and for Nigeria to overcome its security challenges.
The call was contained in a statement signed by Mr Mohammed Idris, Commissioner of Information and Strategy, and made available to newsmen on Tuesday in Minna.
The government called on believers of other religions to join in the struggle for lasting peace.
It expressed joy and happiness to the Almighty Allah for the gift of life and the privilege to witness the 2021 Eid-el Kabir celebration.
It also admonished the people of the state to celebrate and reflect positively on the beauty and significance of the festival while observing the protocols of COVID-19.
The statement noted that the third phase of the pandemic is spreading widely, and appealed to residents of the state to abide by health experts’ directives toward curtailing its spread.
“The state government is not relenting on its proactive measures toward curtailing the spread of the pandemic.
“Governor Abubakar Bello’s administration remains focused on promoting the welfare and well-being of its citizens irrespective of political differences.
“As we celebrate, we urge residents to remain supportive; people in leadership positions need every encouragement to remain focused on the task of improving the living conditions of everyone,” the statement said.