President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, peace and moral renewal as the holy month of Ramadan begins. 

Mr Tinubu made the call on Wednesday at the opening of the 2026 Tafsir for Ramadan, at the State House Mosque, Abuja. 

He noted that Ramadan coincides with the Christian season of Lent, describing the overlap as a reminder of shared values.

“Coincidentally this Ramadan period coincides with the beginning of the Christian lent.

“We thank God for this, it gives us a sign for the need for unity, collaboration, peace and stability in our country.”

The president said the seasons reflected sacrifice, discipline, prayer and self-denial.

Mr Tinubu said fasting should go beyond abstinence from food and drink.

He urged Nigerians to embrace kindness, forgiveness, good deeds and love for humanity.

The president called on citizens, irrespective of religious affiliation, to continue praying for peace and national stability.

He urged Nigerians to support ongoing efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry and other security challenges.

In his remarks, the Chief Imam of the State House Mosque, Abdulwahid Suleiman, thanked Allah for granting the faithful the opportunity to witness another Ramadan. 

He said Ramadan was the month in which the Holy Qur’an was revealed.

Mr Suleiman expressed gratitude to Mr Tinubu for his leadership and wished him a peaceful and successful Ramadan.

He prayed that Allah would forgive His servants during the sacred month and decree goodness for them throughout the year.

The Imam also prayed for divine guidance for the President and his principal officers.

He prayed for wisdom in leadership, good health and strength, and for peace and improved wellbeing for Nigerians. 

(NAN)