By Foday Moriba Conteh
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura, a Sierra Leonean academic, public policy expert and leader of the DIB Movement, on Wednesday, 27th May 2026, joined thousands of Muslim faithful in Makeni to observe the Eid-ul-Adha congregational prayers.
The gathering, held at a major prayer ground in Makeni, attracted worshippers from diverse backgrounds, including Government officials, traditional leaders, religious clerics, youths, elders and political supporters, as Muslims across Sierra Leone joined the global Islamic community in commemorating Eid-ul-Adha, one of the most significant festivals in the Islamic calendar.
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura is widely known for his work in governance, security sector reform, peacebuilding and youth empowerment. He has engaged in academic and policy spaces within and outside Sierra Leone, and is also recognized for his advocacy on inclusive governance and national cohesion through his DIB Movement, which promotes the vision “Heal, Unite and Build.”
Addressing worshippers shortly before the commencement of prayers, Dr. Ibrahim Bangura emphasized the importance of Eid-ul-Adha as a period of reflection on sacrifice, obedience, compassion and solidarity, noting that those values are critical not only in religious practice but also in shaping national unity and peaceful coexistence.
He urged Sierra Leoneans to draw inspiration from the lessons of the festival to strengthen reconciliation efforts and rebuild trust across communities, stressing that peace remains a prerequisite for sustainable development and national progress.
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura further called on citizens to rise above political, ethnic and regional differences and instead embrace dialogue and cooperation in addressing the country’s social and economic challenges. He noted that divisiveness continues to undermine development efforts and appealed for a renewed commitment to nation-building.
Reaffirming the vision of the DIB Movement, he stated that the “Heal, Unite and Build” agenda is designed to foster reconciliation, promote inclusivity and empower citizens particularly young people to actively participate in shaping a stable and prosperous Sierra Leone.
He also encouraged religious leaders and community stakeholders to continue promoting messages of peace, tolerance and mutual respect, describing them as essential pillars for national stability.
The presence of Dr. Ibrahim Bangura at the Makeni Eid prayers was warmly received by residents and supporters, many of whom commended his continued engagement with communities across the country and his consistent advocacy for peacebuilding, inclusive leadership and national unity.
They described his participation in the religious celebration as a demonstration of solidarity with ordinary citizens and a reflection of his broader commitment to engaging with people at community level.
Dr. Ibrahim Bangura concluded by extending Eid greetings to Muslims across Sierra Leone, calling for continued prayers for the country and reaffirming his commitment to working with all stakeholders to promote peace, stability and national development.
