By Our Correspondent

Worshippers in Kaltungo Chiefdom of Gombe State joined their Muslim counterparts across the world to observe the Eid-el-Adha prayer, with a strong call from religious, traditional, and political leaders for peace, unity, and collective responsibility towards societal development.

The two-rakat Eid prayer was observed exactly at 8:40 a.m. at the Kaltungo Central Eid ground. The Chief Imam of the Kaltungo Central Mosque, Sheikh Muhammad Hamman Joda, who led the congregation, urged fellow Islamic scholars and clerics to practice what they preach, emphasizing the importance of sincerity and consistency in religious teachings.

He also appealed to wealthy individuals—especially politicians and affluent members of society—to extend their hands of support to the less privileged for the sake of Allah. He noted that such acts of generosity would not only uplift the needy but also attract divine blessings and foster stronger communal bonds.

In a similar spirit, the Mai Kaltungo, Engineer Saleh Muhammad Umar, OON, who is also the Deputy Chairman of the Gombe State Council of Emirs and Chiefs, used the occasion to call on indigenes of Kaltungo—both at home and in the diaspora—to invest in building residential houses for rent. He explained that the growing number of students attending higher institutions, particularly the Federal Polytechnic Kaltungo, has created an urgent need for accommodation.

He emphasized the importance of erecting more rental houses, not only for students but also for academic and non-academic staff of the polytechnic, adding that such investment would enhance the town’s development and improve its economic viability. The traditional ruler also offered prayers for sustained peace and development in Kaltungo and the entire Gombe State.

In his goodwill message, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) of Gombe State, Professor Abubakar Ibrahim Njodi, who represented Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya at the Eid ground, conveyed the governor’s message of peace, harmony, and unity. He urged the people of Kaltungo and Gombe State in general to use the Eid season as an opportunity to pray for the progress and security of the state and Nigeria at large.

Also speaking, the Chairman of Kaltungo Local Government Council, Mr. Iliya Sulaiman, called on residents to return to farming, especially as the rainy season sets in. He commended the peaceful conduct of the Sallah celebration and wished all Muslims in the local government a blessed and harmonious Eid.

The Eid-el-Adha festivities in Kaltungo were rounded off with traditional cultural displays, including the popular Dabur dance, which took place at the palace of the Mai Kaltungo. The event attracted a large crowd and was marked by joy, color, and communal spirit.

Eid-el-Adha, also known as the Festival of Sacrifice, is one of the most significant Islamic celebrations, commemorating the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command.

This year’s celebration in Kaltungo was not only spiritual but also a rallying call for development, unity, and support for one another across all segments of the society.

By Abubakar Abdullahi

The Chairman of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), Gombe State Chapter, Mr. Banyula Hala, has extended heartfelt Eid el-Adha greetings to the Governor of Gombe State, Alhaji Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya (Dan-Majen Gombe), the Muslim Ummah in Gombe State, and all farmers across the state and beyond.

In his message, Mr. Hala expressed his best wishes for the Governor and all Muslims celebrating Eid el-Adha, a significant religious festival in Islam marked by acts of charity, prayer, and the ritual sacrifice of livestock. He highlighted the importance of unity and cooperation among the farming communities, especially during festive periods that emphasize sharing and giving.

Mr. Hala also commended the efforts of Governor Yahaya in promoting agricultural development and supporting the welfare of farmers in Gombe State. He noted that the administration’s policies have positively impacted the agricultural sector, contributing to increased productivity and sustainability.

“I extend my warmest greetings to His Excellency, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, the entire Muslim community in Gombe State, and all our dedicated farmers. May this Eid el-Adha bring peace, prosperity, and joy to everyone. Let us continue to work together for the betterment of our agricultural sector and our state,” Mr. Hala said.

He also urged farmers to embrace modern farming techniques and cooperate with government initiatives aimed at enhancing agricultural productivity. Mr. Hala reaffirmed AFAN’s commitment to supporting farmers through various programs and initiatives that promote sustainable agricultural practices and improve their livelihoods.

Eid el-Adha, also known as the “Festival of Sacrifice,” commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command. It is a time for Muslims worldwide to engage in prayers, share food with the less fortunate, and strengthen community bonds.

The greetings from the AFAN Chairman underscore the spirit of solidarity and mutual support that characterizes the farming community in Gombe State, especially during significant religious and cultural celebrations.

By Muktar Sani Saulawa

Malam Danladi Ya’u, the Acting Chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Gombe State, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to the entire Muslim Ummah and his party leaders across the state’s 11 local government areas (LGAs) for a successful and joyful Sallah celebration.

In his congratulatory message, Ya’u commended the ADC leaders, including the chairmen of the 11 LGAs and the ward leaders of Gombe State’s 114 wards, for their dedication and efforts in fostering unity and harmony within their communities during the festive period.

“I extend my sincere congratulations to the entire Muslim Ummah, our dedicated party leaders, and all the members of the ADC family across Gombe State for a successful and joyful Sallah celebration,” said Ya’u. “The unity and joy experienced during this period are a testament to our collective commitment to peace and progress.”

Ya’u highlighted the significance of Sallah, known as Eid-el-Kabir, as a time for Muslims to come together in celebration and reflection. He praised the ADC leaders for their role in ensuring that the festivities were marked by goodwill and community spirit.

“Eid-el-Kabir is a time for reflection, sacrifice, and unity. I am proud of our party leaders across the 11 LGAs and 114 wards for their exemplary leadership and for promoting the values of compassion and togetherness,” he added.

The ADC acting chairman also reaffirmed the party’s commitment to fostering inclusive development and social harmony in Gombe State. He called on all citizens to continue supporting one another and to build on the positive spirit generated by the Sallah celebrations.

“The African Democratic Congress in Gombe State remains dedicated to the principles of unity, peace, and inclusive development. Let us continue to support one another and work towards a brighter future for our state and our country,” Ya’u concluded.

Eid-el-Kabir, one of the most important festivals in the Islamic calendar, is celebrated with special prayers, feasts, and the sharing of meat from sacrificed animals. It commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God, symbolizing faith and submission.

As the celebrations draw to a close, the ADC’s message of congratulations and unity echoes the broader values of the party in promoting social cohesion and progress across Nigeria.