President of the Republic of Sierra Leone, Julius Maada Bio and First Lady, Fatima Maada Bio, on Wednesday 27 May, 2026 joined Muslims across Sierra Leone and around the world to observe Eid Ul-Adha prayers at the Presidential Lodge in Freetown.
The Eid prayers brought together Muslim faithful, religious leaders and Government officials in a solemn atmosphere of worship, thanksgiving and reflection on faith, sacrifice and national unity.
Delivering the sermon, Chief Imam, Alhaji Chernoh Bangura, emphasized the importance of obedience and unwavering commitment to the will of Allah. Drawing reference from the story of Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command, the Imam noted that the act of faith forms the foundation of Eid Ul-Adha celebrations observed by Muslims worldwide.
He explained that Eid Ul-Adha remains a sacred occasion for Muslims who are financially capable to offer sacrifices of livestock, including sheep and cattle, as an act of devotion and obedience to God.
The Chief Imam also commended the Government of Sierra Leone for what he described as the transparent management of Hajj-related arrangements. He observed that under the leadership of President Bio, challenges that previously characterized Hajj administration have significantly reduced, praising the President for his commitment to the Muslim community and continued support toward the promotion of Islam in Sierra Leone.
Alhaji Chernoh Bangura further reflected on President Bio’s early sacrifices for the country, noting that he risked his life in defence of Sierra Leone at a young age. He prayed for Allah’s continued guidance, protection and wisdom upon the President as he continues to lead the nation.
In his remarks, President Julius Maada Bio expressed gratitude to members of the Muslim community for joining the Eid Ul-Adha prayers at the Presidential Lodge and offered prayers for peace, national unity and the safety of pilgrims performing Hajj.
“May Almighty Allah accept our prayers. Today, God has granted us the grace of life, and we are here to praise Him and give thanks. I also pray for our brothers and sisters who are on pilgrimage for Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam. May Allah protect them and bring them safely back home,” President Bio stated.
Responding to the Imam’s sermon, the President described the Khutbah as a message centered on commitment, dedication and trust in Allah, while reaffirming his commitment to serving the people of Sierra Leone.
He emphasized the importance of preserving the country’s longstanding religious tolerance, describing it as one of Sierra Leone’s greatest strengths.
“As a country, we are blessed with religious tolerance, which remains one of our greatest strengths. We must continue to cherish it. We should love God, believe in Him, remain united and be law-abiding citizens. The future of this country lies in the hands of our children,” he stressed.
President Bio concluded by praying for lasting peace and prosperity in Sierra Leone, expressing hope that the prayers offered during the occasion would contribute to the country’s continued stability and development.
“May the prayers offered here today bring reward and everlasting peace to this country. Thank you all for coming. I am grateful. Assalamu Alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh,” he concluded.
In her vote of thanks, First Lady Fatima Maada Bio expressed appreciation to the Imams and Muslim worshippers for joining the Presidential family annually to observe Eid Ul-Adha prayers.
She also thanked President Bio for his sustained support to the Muslim community and the Islamic faith in Sierra Leone.
“Thank you to the Imams and everyone who came today. President Bio appreciates your support and I also want to specially thank my husband for all he has done for the Muslim community and for always standing in support of Islam,” she stated.
