By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for peace, unity, and national solidarity as both Christian and Muslim faithful in Nigeria begin the sacred observances of Lent and Ramadan, which commence on the same day this year.
In a statement issued by the State House on Wednesday, the President described the rare convergence of the two religious periods as a powerful symbol of commonality and shared faith.
“This year, Lent and Ramadan begin on the same day. This is not a common occurrence, and it reminds us that as a people of faith, we share a lot in common and are one people under God,” the President said.
The President’s message highlighted the core tenets of both observances. He noted that for Christians, the 40-day Lenten period is dedicated to fasting, abstinence, and penitence, reflecting on the example of Jesus Christ in the wilderness. For Muslims, he stated that Ramadan is a hallowed season of total submission to God, marked by sacrifice, deep spiritual reflection, and communal love, representing one of the five pillars of Islam.
“As a nation and as a people, I urge us, as we embark on these important observances, to ensure good neighbourliness, promote peace, unity, and stability, and pray for the progress and security of our nation,” Tinubu said.
He encouraged all citizens to live by the good precepts of their faiths and to be honourable in their duty to God and fellow humans.
The President concluded his message with prayers that the lessons, blessings, and joys of these sacred seasons would abide with the people always.
