Bamidele Calls for Unity, Tolerance, and New Security Strategy as Muslims Celebrate Eid al-Fitr

As Muslims across Nigeria and the world mark the end of Ramadan, the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, has extended warm greetings to all Nigerians celebrating Eid al-Fitr.

This was contained in a statement issued by Senator Bamidele, who serves as Leader of the Senate and Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee on National Security Summit in the Senate of Nigeria, and made available to journalists in Abuja.
He noted that throughout the holy month, Muslim faithful devoted themselves to God through fasting, prayer, charity, and deep reflection, especially at a time marked by global uncertainty.
Reflecting on recent events, he described Eid al-Fitr as a strong symbol of peaceful coexistence, particularly in light of the tragic bomb explosions in Maiduguri, Borno State, which led to loss of lives and injuries. He stressed that the lessons of Ramadan should inspire individuals, leaders, and governments at all levels to act with greater responsibility and compassion.
While commending Nigeria’s defence, intelligence, and security agencies for their resilience, he emphasized the urgent need to reassess strategies in tackling violent extremism and terrorism. According to him, although military (kinetic) efforts remain vital, they are not sufficient on their own to guarantee lasting peace and stability.
With the conclusion of Ramadan, he called for a shift from outdated approaches toward greater investment in people. He urged religious leaders to promote tolerance and avoid radicalising followers, while encouraging socio-cultural leaders to prioritise dialogue over violence in resolving inter-ethnic conflicts.
He further stressed that addressing insecurity is not solely the responsibility of the federal government, but requires active involvement from subnational authorities. He called on state governments to focus on human capital development by improving access to basic education, healthcare, nutrition, social protection, and fostering innovation.
At the National Assembly, he revealed that efforts are already underway to adopt a comprehensive strategy for national development and security. This includes the establishment of an Ad-hoc Committee on National Security Summit tasked with identifying the root causes of insecurity, as well as the ongoing review of the 1999 Constitution to empower subnational governments with greater roles in ensuring security within their jurisdictions.
He concluded by reaffirming the commitment of the National Assembly to strengthen legal frameworks in the fight against violent extremism and wished all Muslims a joyful and peaceful Eid al-Fitr celebration.