ABUJA/Nigeria: A prominent public affairs figure, Lauretta Onochie, has called for national unity, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence as Muslims and Christians across Nigeria simultaneously observe two of their most sacred spiritual seasons — Ramadan and Lent.
In a message released Wednesday, Onochie noted that while Muslim faithful began the holy month of fasting and devotion a day earlier, Christians nationwide marked Ash Wednesday, signaling the start of the Lenten season. She described the overlap as a powerful symbol of shared values and national cohesion.
Highlighting the spiritual significance of both observances, she said Ramadan and Lent, though rooted in different faith traditions, emphasise similar principles including humility before God, self-discipline, charity to the needy, forgiveness, reconciliation and commitment to righteous living.
“From the mosques of Kano to the churches of Port Harcourt, this season reminds us of what binds us together far more than what separates us,” she stated, describing the parallel observances as a reminder that diversity remains one of the nation’s greatest strengths rather than a weakness.
Onochie urged Nigerians to use the period for reflection not only on personal faith but also on national unity, warning that at a time when tensions can easily be inflamed, citizens must choose dialogue over suspicion and cooperation over division. She stressed the importance of protecting one another’s right to worship and respecting religious differences without hostility.
Extending goodwill messages to adherents of both faiths, she prayed for acceptance of fasting and answered prayers for Muslims observing Ramadan, while wishing Christians a spiritually renewing Lenten journey marked by deeper faith and love for neighbour.
She concluded that when followers of different religions stand together in mutual respect, the country itself becomes stronger, expressing hope that the sacred season would inspire a more compassionate, just and united nation.
