President Tinubu's Message on Religious Harmony as Sacred Seasons Align
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has delivered a heartfelt message to Nigerian Muslims and Christians, marking the rare simultaneous commencement of Ramadan and Lent this year. In a personally signed statement released on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the president highlighted this unique coincidence as a powerful reminder of the shared values that bind the nation's diverse faith communities together.
A Call for Peace and National Unity
Tinubu emphasized that the concurrent start of these two sacred periods should inspire citizens to strengthen national harmony and foster good neighborliness. "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 stated. He urged Nigerians to use this season for prayers, peace, and promoting unity across religious lines.
Understanding the Significance of Both Observances
The president elaborated on the spiritual importance of both seasons. For Muslims, Ramadan represents a hallowed month of total submission to God, characterized by fasting, sacrifice, devotion, service, and communal love. It stands as one of the five pillars of Islam, calling for deep spiritual reflection beyond the obligatory fasting.
For Christians, Lent is a period of fasting, abstinence, and penitence, following the example of Jesus Christ's time in the wilderness before His crucifixion. Tinubu noted that both observances share themes of spiritual discipline and reflection.
Encouraging Good Neighborliness and National Progress
Tinubu called on all Nigerians observing these seasons to remain guided by the teachings of their faiths and to actively promote peaceful coexistence. He specifically urged citizens to ensure good neighborliness, support stability, and offer prayers for the nation's progress and security. "Let us live by the good precepts of our faiths and be honourable in our duty to God and fellow humans," the president added, praying that the blessings of these seasons would bring lasting good to the country.
Background on Ramadan Announcement
The announcement of the Ramadan moon-sighting for 2026 was made by the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Umar Elkanemi Garbai Al-Amin, on Tuesday evening, February 17. This was done in place of the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa'ad Abubakar III, who was temporarily absent. The Shehu of Borno, serving as vice-chairman of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), acted on behalf of the Sultanate Council in line with established tradition, ensuring the formal public announcement proceeded smoothly.
This alignment of Ramadan and Lent provides a unique opportunity for interfaith reflection and solidarity in Nigeria, as emphasized by President Tinubu's unifying message.
