President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has extended goodwill to Christians and Muslims across Nigeria as the seasons of Lent and Ramadan commence simultaneously, describing the rare convergence as a powerful reminder of the country’s shared faith and unity.
In a State House press statement issued on February 18, 2026, the President greeted adherents of both religions with what he described as “profound reverence to God Almighty,” noting that the alignment of the two sacred observances is uncommon and symbolically significant.
“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,” Tinubu stated.
Reflecting on the meaning of the Lenten season, the President noted that for Christians, the 40-day period represents fasting, abstinence and penitence in emulation of Jesus Christ’s time in the wilderness before His crucifixion. He described it as a solemn period of reflection and spiritual renewal.
On Ramadan, Tinubu highlighted its central place in Islam as one of the five pillars of the faith. He described the holy month as a time of sacrifice, devotion, communal love and total submission to God, marked not only by fasting but by deeper spiritual discipline and obedience.
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The President urged Nigerians to use the overlapping seasons to strengthen bonds of neighbourliness and promote peace, unity and national stability.
“As a nation and as a people, I urge us… to ensure good neighbourliness, promote peace, unity, and stability, and pray for the progress and security of our nation,” he said.
Tinubu called on citizens to embody the core values of their faiths, encouraging honour, compassion and responsibility toward one another.
He concluded by praying that the “lessons, blessings, and joys” of Lent and Ramadan would endure beyond the seasons, reinforcing moral renewal and collective purpose across the country.