31/03/2026
NATIONAL MUSEUM, AKURE HOSTS 2026 EID EL-FITR CELEBRATION, CALLS FOR SUSTAINED UNITY AFTER RAMADAN
National Museum, Akure, on Tuesday 31 March, 2026 organized a ceremony to mark the 2026 Eid el-Fitr celebration, bringing together Muslim faithful, community leaders, and members of the public in a demonstration of unity and cultural appreciation.
The event, which was first introduced in 2025, has now become an annual programme of the museum, aimed at promoting interfaith harmony and preserving Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
Speaking at the event, the Curator of the National Museum, Akure, Mrs. Adegboye Janet Yemisi, described Eid el-Fitr as a period of joy, reflection, and gratitude following the completion of Ramadan. She emphasized that the museum’s role goes beyond the preservation of artefacts to fostering cultural values and encouraging peaceful coexistence among diverse groups.
She urged participants to sustain the virtues of discipline, compassion, and devotion cultivated during the holy month, citing Qur’an 2:185 on the importance of gratitude to Allah.
In his remarks, the Chief Imam of the Deji’s Palace, Sheikh Abdulfatai Idera, commended the museum for organizing an inclusive programme that promotes religious tolerance.
He offered prayers for peace and unity in Akure, Ondo State, and Nigeria at large.
A lecture titled “What Next After Ramadan?”, presented by Ustadh Ahmed Danlami Muhammad, highlighted the need for Muslims to maintain spiritual discipline, uphold good character, continue acts of charity, and promote peaceful coexistence beyond the Ramadan period.
The event also featured participation from pupils of four Muslim primary schools, who engaged in recitations, drama presentations, and a quiz competition. Al Bidaayah Centre, Igoba emerged first with 48 points, followed by Al Mutmainnah School with 45 points, Al Dab Scholar School with 42 points, and Al Qu'raa Scholars Academy with 33 points. The winners were presented with prizes.
Dignitaries at the event included Imam Sheikh Abdul Fatai Idera (Deputy Chief Imam), Mallam Sa’ad Salihu (Head of the Hausa Community, Deji’s Palace Road), Alhaji White Adamu, and Alhaji Idris (BDC Akure). Also present was Omotosho Abdul Khoofid, President of the Muslim Students’ Society of Nigeria, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), who served as the Master of Ceremonies.
The programme also featured a lecture on the role of national museums in celebrating Eid el-Fitr in Nigeria, with emphasis on cultural preservation, public education, and the promotion of national unity.
The event, organized by a committee led by Mr. Shaka Abdulrahman, concluded with prayers for peace, unity, and continued development in the country. Other members of the committee included Mr. Ahmadu Zekeri Mohammed, Mr. Abu Sanni, Mr. Saliu Lucky Rashidu, Mrs. Ologunowa Anike, and Mrs. Agboola Grace.