‘Lent, Ramadan Coincidence Shows We Are One Under God’, Says Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has said the coincidence of Lent and Ramadan beginning on the same day shows that Nigerians “are one people under God.”

In a message to Christians and Muslims marking the solemn occasions of Lent and Ramadan, the President noted that the two observances commencing on the same day was not common and reflects the shared values of people of faith.

“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,” he said.

Tinubu explained that 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.

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

The President urged Nigerians, as they embark on the observances, to ensure good neighbourliness, promote peace, unity and stability, and pray for the progress and security of the nation.

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

He prayed that the lessons, blessings and joys of the sacred seasons would abide with Nigerians always.