SHETTIMA CALLS FOR UNITY AND TOLERANCE AS MUSLIMS MARK EID-EL-MAULUD

Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on Nigerians to promote peace, unity and mutual understanding as Muslims across the country celebrate Eid-el-Maulud.

Shettima urged citizens to reject hatred, intolerance and division, saying the occasion provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on values that can strengthen peaceful coexistence and national unity.

In his message to Muslims marking the celebration, the Vice President encouraged Nigerians to draw lessons from the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad, particularly his emphasis on compassion, patience, forgiveness and peaceful relations with others.

He said the values associated with the occasion should extend beyond the celebration and influence how citizens interact with one another, regardless of their religious, ethnic or political differences.

Shettima stressed the importance of maintaining harmony at a time when the country continues to face various social and economic challenges. He urged Nigerians to avoid actions and rhetoric capable of deepening divisions or creating unnecessary tension within communities.

The Vice President also called on Muslims to use the occasion to pray for the continued peace, stability and progress of Nigeria, while encouraging citizens to contribute positively to the development of their communities.

According to him, building a stronger nation requires collective responsibility and a willingness among citizens to respect one another and work together despite their differences.

Shettima further encouraged Nigerians to demonstrate kindness and compassion towards the less privileged, noting that religious celebrations should also provide opportunities for people to support those in need.

He reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to promoting an environment where citizens can live together peacefully and pursue their aspirations without fear or discrimination.

The Vice President expressed hope that the Eid-el-Maulud celebration would inspire Nigerians to strengthen bonds of brotherhood, embrace tolerance and place the interests of the country above personal and sectional considerations.

He wished Muslim faithful across Nigeria a peaceful and meaningful celebration, urging them to uphold the values of love, sacrifice and peaceful coexistence associated with the occasion.