Peter Obi Hails Rare Convergence of Lent, Ramadan as Opportunity for National Renewal
Former Anambra Governor and presidential aspirant, Peter Obi, on Wednesday described the coinciding start of the Christian season of Lent and the Muslim holy month of Ramadan as a “rare spiritual convergence” and an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect, unite, and seek collective renewal.
In a statement shared via his verified social media handle, Obi said the overlap, which has not occurred in many years, is more than a meeting of dates.
He noted that it symbolises shared sacrifice, prayer, and thanksgiving, reflecting the possibility of national healing amid ongoing challenges in governance.
Obi urged Nigerians, both Christians and Muslims, to use the period to pray for the nation’s security and economic challenges while pairing spiritual devotion with acts of charity, forgiveness, and self-discipline.
He described the dual observance of fasting and reflection as a “Double Fast,” calling on citizens to transcend religious differences and embrace shared humanity.
“It is striking that both sacred seasons are marked by fasting, prayer, and thanksgiving. We may therefore see this convergence as what might fittingly be called a ‘Double Fast,’ a divine invitation to transcend our differences and rediscover our shared humanity.
“As millions of Nigerians, Christians and Muslims alike, from North to South, abstain from food and drink, or devote themselves to forty days of penance and prayer, we are united in a single purpose: to seek the mercy of the Almighty for the healing of our land,” Obi said.
He added that the season should serve as a “spiritual reset” for the country and prayed for lasting peace and unity across Nigeria.
“It urges us toward charity for the vulnerable, forgiveness of one another, and the self-discipline both faiths commend. Many will rightly see this period as a necessary spiritual reset for our troubled nation.
“Let this season become a time of deep spiritual engagement. May our hunger remind us of our neighbours’ suffering, and may our prayers stand as a shield over our nation,” he added.
Obi concluded his message by extending greetings for a holy Lent and Ramadan, saying, “With our prayers and shared resolve, a New Nigeria is possible.”
