By Joan Nwagwu
The Wife of the Vice-President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, has urged Nigerians to embrace unity, compassion and peaceful coexistence as Ramadan and Lent begin.
Shettima made the call in a goodwill message to Muslims and Christians on Thursday in Abuja, marking the commencement of the two sacred seasons.
She congratulated Muslims on the start of Ramadan, describing it as a period of prayer, fasting, self-discipline and spiritual renewal.
“Ramadan is a sacred period for spiritual growth, self-discipline and compassion, reminding Muslims of the importance of kindness, generosity and service to humanity,” she said.
She urged Muslims to uphold kindness, generosity and forgiveness and other virtues in line with the teachings of the Holy Quran.
She prayed that the season would strengthen faith, deepen reflection and promote peace within families and communities.
She also extended goodwill to Christians observing Lent, urging them to use the period for reflection and closer communion with God.
According to her, Lent offers opportunities for spiritual renewal, sacrifice and commitment to righteous living.
“As Christians begin Lent, the season equally calls for reflection, sacrifice and renewed commitment to faith, love and peaceful coexistence among all Nigerians,” she added.
Shettima said both Ramadan and Lent emphasise compassion, selflessness and love for humanity, which should strengthen national unity and harmony.
She stressed the need for mutual respect and understanding among citizens, irrespective of religious differences.
She urged Nigerians to support one another and contribute to peace, stability and national progress through unity, tolerance and collective responsibility.
She also called on religious leaders to continue promoting messages of peace and coexistence during the sacred periods.
She expressed optimism that prayers offered during Ramadan and Lent would bring divine guidance to the nation.
She wished Muslims a blessed Ramadan and Christians a fulfilling Lenten journey marked by peace, hope and spiritual growth. (NAN)
Edited by Funmilayo Adeyemi
