Ramadan, Lent: Makinde, Olubadan Felicitate Nigerians

As the 2026 Ramadan and Lent seasons commence, Oyo State governor, Seyi Makinde, and the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja, have felicitated with the Muslim Ummah and Christians in the state and across the country.

They called for prayers for the progress and unity of the country.

The governor urged them to use the blessed period to deepen their commitment to serving God and making an impact on humanity.

Makinde pointed out that God Almighty was using the coincidence of the two fasting seasons to, again, teach adherents of both religions the need for love, unity, and religious harmony, and that the lesson must not be lost throughout the period.

Makinde, who lauded the Muslims and Christians in Oyo State for always living together in harmony and working hand in hand to ensure that the state continues to make progress by supporting his government since 2019, tasked them to use the 2026 Ramadan and Lent fasting periods to further make supplications to God for the state and Nigeria, as well as for the leaders.

He promised that his administration would continue to serve them and put their interests first.

The Olubadan of Ibadanland called on both Muslims and Christians to use the current fasting periods of Ramadan and Lent to pray for the progress and unity of Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Chief Solomon Ayoade, Oba Ladoja reminded the faithful that the essence of both religious observances is centred on sober reflection, forgiveness, kindness, peaceful coexistence, discipline, and spiritual renewal.

“The convergence of Ramadan and Lenten periods is not a mere coincidence but a divine arrangement to show the whole world the need for unity, togetherness, love, religious tolerance, and mutual understanding among the religious faithful,” Olubadan said.

He emphasised that fasting is not only about abstaining from food and drink but also from indecent behaviour, harmful speech, and hatred.

The monarch urged Nigerians to use this period to pray for the nation’s leaders, Ibadanland, the Yoruba people, and the country as a whole, especially given ongoing challenges such as insecurity.