Tinubu sends powerful message to Christians, Muslims

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

President Bola Tinubu has called for unity, peace and renewed devotion as Christians and Muslims commence the sacred seasons of Lent and Ramadan simultaneously.

In a statement he personally signed, the President described the rare convergence of both religious observances as a reminder of the shared spiritual heritage binding Nigerians together.

“With profound reverence to God Almighty, I greet the Christian and Muslim faithful on the solemn occasions of Lent and Ramadan,” Tinubu stated.

Highlighting the significance of the unusual alignment, he noted: “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 reflected on the spiritual meaning of the two seasons, describing Lent as a period of fasting, abstinence and penitence in the Christian tradition.

“For Christians, the Lenten season is a time for fasting, abstinence, and penitence, following Jesus Christ’s example in the wilderness before His crucifixion, which brought salvation to mankind,” he said.

He also underscored the spiritual depth of Ramadan in Islam, characterising it as a season of sacrifice and devotion.

“For Muslims, Ramadan is a hallowed season that reflects total submission to God Almighty and His command of sacrifice, devotion, service, and communal love and giving. It marks one of the five pillars of Islam. Beyond the obligatory fasting, Ramadan calls for deep spiritual reflection in obedience to Islam’s injunctions.”

Tinubu urged Nigerians to seize the moment to strengthen bonds across religious divides and work towards national stability.

“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,” he said.

He further appealed to citizens to embody the core teachings of their respective faiths.

“Let us live by the good precepts of our faiths and be honourable in our duty to God and fellow humans.”