Labour Party 2023 presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi has urged Nigerians to embrace prayer, unity, and compassion as Christians begin the Lenten season and Muslims commence the holy month of Ramadan on the same day, describing the rare alignment as a powerful opportunity for national reflection and renewal.
In a statement shared on his X page on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Obi highlighted the significance of the simultaneous start of the two major fasting periods amid Nigeria’s ongoing economic hardships and insecurity.
“This rare coincidence is far more than a meeting of dates; it is a powerful symbol of shared sacrifice, reflection, and the possibility of national renewal,” Obi said.
He emphasized that both Lent and Ramadan center on fasting, prayer, and charity, presenting a moment for collective hope and moral responsibility.
“May our hunger remind us of our neighbours’ suffering, and may our prayers stand as a shield over our nation,” he added, stressing the need for acts of charity, forgiveness, and self-discipline alongside spiritual devotion.
Obi expressed hope that the shared observance would foster unity across religious and regional divides, serving as a catalyst for moral renewal and national healing at a challenging time for many citizens.
The message comes as millions of Nigerians observe the dual fasting periods, showing themes of shared humanity, tolerance, and collective responsibility in the face of national difficulties.
