What same day commencement of Ramadan, Lent signifies – Yilwatda

Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, has described the commencement of Ramadan and Lent on the same day this year as symbolic, with a message for the country.

He said this in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja while congratulating Muslim and Christian faithful in the country on the commencement of both fasting periods.

The statement was issued by Mr
Abimbola Tooki, his Special Adviser on Media and Communications Strategy.

The APC national chairman described the twin sacred seasons as deeply significant periods of fasting, reflection, sacrifice, and spiritual renewal for Nigerians of both faiths.

He noted that it was profoundly instructive and richly symbolic that Ramadan and Lent were beginning on the same day, describing the rare convergence as a powerful message to the country.

“It is a divine reminder that Nigerians are one people, brothers and sisters bound by a shared destiny, regardless of religious affiliation, and that peaceful coexistence is not optional but essential to national progress and stability,” Yilwatda said.

He said that both Ramadan and Lent emphasise common values such as discipline, compassion, humility, love for one another, and service to humanity.

The chairman urged Nigerians to allow these shared virtues to shape their daily interactions and strengthen the bonds between Muslims and Christians, leaving no room for suspicion, hatred or division.

He called on Nigerians to use the sacred period to pray fervently for the country and for the current administration of President Bola Tinubu.

This, he said, was especially as it undertook far-reaching reforms aimed at stabilising and repositioning the economy and society.

“With sincere prayers, unity of purpose, patience, and collective sacrifice, these reforms will land safely and yield lasting solutions to our economic and social challenges,” the APC national chairman said.

He expressed optimism that the season would renew hope, deepen faith, and reinforce Nigeria’s collective commitment to peace, unity, and national development.

He prayed that Allah accepts the fasts, prayers, and acts of charity of all Muslims during the period and wished Christians a fulfilling Lenten season.

He also prayed that the period would draw them closer to God in faith, love, and selfless service.
Yilwatda expressed belief that, together as one people under God, Nigeria would emerge stronger, more united and more prosperous