PETER OBI, SANWO-OLU EXTEND WELL-WISHES TO NIGERIANS AS LENT AND RAMADAN COMMENCE

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By: Muftau Fatimo

Nigerian leaders have extended greetings to both Christians and Muslims as the Christian season of Lent and the Muslim holy month of Ramadan commence simultaneously on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.

In a statement released on Wednesday, former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi described the overlap of Lent and Ramadan as “a rare spiritual convergence to cherish and revere.”

He noted that, for the first time in many years, both sacred periods begin on the same day, adding, “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 at a time when our collective identity has been strained by ineffective governance.”

Obi emphasized that both seasons involve fasting, prayer, and thanksgiving, calling it a “Double Fast” — a divine opportunity to rise above differences and rediscover a sense of shared humanity.

He encouraged Nigerians to make the period one of both reflection and action, saying: “Let our fasting remind us of the struggles of our neighbors, and let our prayers serve as a shield over our nation.

“May our sacrifices be accepted, and may this rare alignment bring a lasting era of peace and unity across Nigeria. Wishing everyone a Holy Lent and Ramadan Kareem.”

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, also sent his greetings to Muslim faithful in the state, stating,

“As the holy month begins, I personally wish all Muslim faithful in Lagos a period filled with peace and reflection.

I pray that the weeks ahead grant you strength, clarity, and abundant blessings. Let us continue to keep one another in our prayers.”