As we celebrate Eid, the sacred day of Arafat, I thank the Almighty Allah for granting all Muslims in the Ghana Navy another Eid. Eid-ul-Adha reminds us and teaches us the inspiring story of loyalty, obedience, sacrifice and selflessness of the Prophet Ibrahim who was ordered by Allah to sacrifice his only beloved son and he obeyed Allah’s command.
On this special occasion, I urge all Muslim Officers, Ratings, Defence Civilian Staff and indeed all personnel of the Ghana Navy in particular to imbibe the values demonstrated by Prophet Ibrahim in our everyday lives towards humanity, our families and our nation.
Let us remember that Eid-ul-Adha is a feast of Sacrifice. When we celebrate Eid-ul-Adha, we share what we have with those around us and give alms to the less fortunate. These acts of selflessness should not be forgotten as we celebrate. The day is therefore not just a day for merrymaking and celebration, but more importantly, a day for Muslims, and indeed all mankind, to reflect on their sacrifices, first of all, to their Maker, fellow humans and to society at large. On this special occasion, I am calling on all Muslim brothers and sisters in the Ghana Navy to manifest this virtue which underpins the commemoration of Eid-Ul-Adha and renew their covenant with Almighty Allah.
As we safely celebrate with family and loved ones, may our prayers be answered and our sacrifices be acceptable to Allah. May we be inspired by the sacrifice to give back to humanity, something that is bigger than ourselves.
It is heartwarming to note that this year’s celebrations, even though COVID continue to be with us, would take place in all our Mosques across the nation and in our various barracks. I am also glad to observe that a number of our families and personnel who could afford, have taken advantage to take part in the pilgrimage to perform the Hajj.
I admonish all personnel in the Ghana Navy to continue to observe all the safety COVID protocols since the pandemic still remains a threat to human lives. I entreat all to adhere to the safety directives issued by High Command for our own safety and that of our families and loved ones.
May you use this Eid to spread love and care to those who need them most. I admonish you all not to forget the lessons of the Ramadan, and to continue to eschew all negative tendencies, uphold love and respect for one another in the spirit of compassion, empathy and care-giving. Above all, endeavor to always maintain a professional posture as you strive to serve Allah and country.
Finally, I urge you all to continue to pray for our colleagues deployed in the various peacekeeping missions. May Allah protect and safeguard them during their tours of duty. Regrettably, some of our Muslim brothers and sisters were called to their maker, leaving behind families. I entreat you to pray for the repose of the souls of the departed, and also pray and support their families.
To our Muslim faithfuls, I say may Allah, the most Gracious, the most Merciful, bless and protect you and your families. As you celebrate this great feast, I wish you "Barka da Sallah" and Eid Mubarak!
IA YAKUBU
Rear Admiral
Chief of the Naval Staff
