Sallah Celebrations in Nigeria Overshadowed by Hardship and Food Price Surge

Nigerian Muslims celebrated this year’s Eid-ul-adha, also known as the festival of sacrifice, in Saudi Arabia alongside their counterparts worldwide.

The celebration took place amidst the economic challenges in Nigeria, with many individuals expressing concerns about their limited purchasing power affecting their festivities.

Nearly two million pilgrims from various countries, including at least 65,000 Nigerian pilgrims, ascended Mount Arafat as the 2024 Hajj pilgrimage concluded. Despite the scorching 46-degree Celsius temperature, pilgrims defied warnings to stay in their tents and instead gathered at the Namirat Mosque on the sacred mount to listen to the Arafat sermon.

Several pilgrims, including a woman from Lagos State, shared their joy at participating in this year’s Hajj, describing it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and expressing gratitude to Allah for the experience in Saudi Arabia.

President Bola Tinubu has expressed his appreciation for the sacrifices made by Nigerians, assuring them that their efforts will not be in vain. In a statement released on Saturday, Tinubu extended his greetings to the Muslim Ummah on the occasion of Eid-el-Kabir and prayed for the acceptance of their supplications and acts of obedience by Allah.

He emphasized the significance of sacrifice, faith, and obedience to the will of the Almighty during this event. Tinubu urged Nigerians to reflect on the essence of the occasion and recognize that sacrifice and duty are crucial for nation-building.

He called for collective purpose, will, and action to bring about positive change. Tinubu also urged citizens to pray for continuous peace and stability in the nation while working towards unity, peace, and progress.

Recognizing the sacrifices made by Nigerians over the past year, Tinubu assured them that their sacrifices and expectations will yield positive outcomes, as the economy strengthens and critical sectors regain vibrancy.