President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was the focus of prayers on Friday as he attended the wedding ceremony of ten children of the Minister of State for Defence, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, at the National Mosque in Abuja.
The multiple wedding, held at the National Mosque Abuja, drew senior political leaders, diplomats, traditional rulers and religious figures, turning the event into one of the most prominent social and political gatherings of the season.
The officiating Imam, Professor Luqman Zakariyah, used the occasion to offer special prayers for President Tinubu, describing him as a father figure to all Nigerians. He asked Allah to grant the President good health, long life and wisdom, and expressed hope that his administration would restore dignity and opportunity to those at the margins of society.
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According to the Imam, the President’s presence symbolised national unity, as he stood in for the Matawalle family during the solemnisation. He prayed that Tinubu’s tenure would “bring hope to the hopeless” and success to the nation at a time of social and economic strain.
President Tinubu formally received the brides into the Matawalle family, a role traditionally reserved for senior family representatives. The gesture was met with quiet approval from guests, many of whom viewed it as a sign of respect for family values and cultural traditions.
The ceremony involved the marriage of five daughters of the Defence Minister — Maryam, Safiyya, Farida, Nana Firdausi and Aisha — alongside five of his sons — Ibrahim, Abdul Jalal, Surajo, Bello and Fahad. Each couple was joined in accordance with Islamic rites, with prayers offered for peace, understanding and stability in their homes.
Professor Zakariyah also prayed for the couples’ parents and grandparents, asking for divine reward for their guidance and support. He urged the newlyweds to build their marriages on patience, faith and mutual respect, reminding them that marriage carries both joy and responsibility.
Adding an international presence to the ceremony was Carlos Manuel Vila Nova, President of São Tomé and Príncipe, whose attendance underscored Nigeria’s diplomatic ties and the stature of the event. His presence was acknowledged warmly by hosts and guests alike.
Several state governors, members of the National Assembly, Federal Executive Council members, service chiefs and representatives of the diplomatic corps were also in attendance. Traditional rulers and religious leaders from across the country joined well-wishers in witnessing the ceremony, which proceeded under tight security.
While the event was primarily a family celebration, it also reflected the intersection of public office, faith and tradition in Nigeria’s civic life. For many observers, the prayers for the President and the emphasis on unity offered a reminder of the expectations placed on national leadership.
As guests departed the mosque, the mood was calm and reflective. The prayers offered for the couples and for the country echoed beyond the ceremony, reinforcing the hope that leadership, family and faith can still serve as anchors in uncertain times.
