Lent - NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA

Ismail Abdulaziz
Mar, Fri, 2025

Ramadan/Lent:Army hosts interfaith dinner in Niger

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By Rita Iliya
The Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) of the Nigerian Army on Friday hosted an interfaith dinner for Muslims and Christians to break their fast for the Ramadan and Lenten in Niger.

Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, Commander of TRADOC, in his address, said the aim was to foster unity and tolerance.

Aligbe said the significance of the occasion went beyond physical abstinence from food and drinks.

He reiterated the importance of sacrifice and self-reflection during periods of fasting, adding that fasting is a sacrifice that drew all believers closer to their maker.

He urged Nigerians to pray for the country’s leaders and the military personnel deployed in various theatres of operations.

“We owe it to them to make their families feel comfortable while they are away.”

He expressed gratitude to the government and people of Niger for their support and hospitality, promising that the Nigerian Army would reciprocate by ensuring greater security in the state and beyond.

Earlier, Brig.-Gen. Dantani Danjuma, Acting Director, Examination, TRADOC, said the period of fasting was a time for prayers, charities, self-improvement, and a reminder that diversity was a source of strength and commitment.

Danjuma encouraged guests to enjoy the meal and expressed gratitude to the Commander, TRADOC, for providing financial support and opportunities for people of both faiths to come together.

He extended prayers for peace, progress, and continuous unity, urging everyone to uphold the values of tolerance and respect for one another.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, which brought together military personnel, government officials, and civilians, aimed to promote unity and interfaith harmony. (NAN)
Edited by Joe Idika

Convergence of Lent, Ramadan testament to our unity in diversity – Tinubu

Folashade Adeniran
Mar, Fri, 2025

General News

Convergence of Lent, Ramadan testament to our unity in diversity – Tinubu

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By Salif Atojoko

President Bola Tinubu says this year’s convergence of religious observances of Lent and Ramadan is a testament to the unity in diversity that characterises Nigeria.

Tnubu said this in a statement he personally signed on Thursday to extend his heartfelt wishes to all Christian faithful on commencement of the 2025 Lenten season.

“This year’s Lent, a time of devotion and reflection for Christians, coincided with the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims, a season that similarly emphasised devotion, sacrifice and acts of kindness.

“This period of reflection coincides with encouraging progress in our nation. We ended 2024 positively, as our economy showed strong growth in the last quarter compared to the same period in 2023.

“Food prices are declining, the exchange rate is stabilising, fuel prices are dropping, and our internal security is strengthening.

“Our security and law enforcement agencies are making commendable strides. This progress fills us with steadfast hope and optimism for the future,” said the President.

Tinubu extended heartfelt wishes to all Christians in Nigeria and worldwide who partake in the sacred time.

Specifically, he urged the Christian faithful to embrace the love of Jesus Christ by showing compassion and empathy to those around them.

The President prayed that as Christians journeyed through the Lenten season with penitence and steadfast devotion to God Almighty, may His kindness bring healing to the sick, prosperity and peace to the nation.

“May we experience God’s goodness in a profound way this Lenten season. May He renew our hearts, strengthen our faith, and guide us on righteousness,” concluded Tinubu. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

Onaiyekan urges Christian-Muslim unity during Lent, Ramadan

Philip Daniel Yatai
Mar, Mon, 2025

Religious

Onaiyekan urges Christian-Muslim unity during Lent, Ramadan

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By Abiemwense Moru

As Christians and Muslims observe their sacred seasons of Lent and Ramadan, the Catholic Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, John Cardinal Onaiyekan, is calling for greater unity between the two faiths.

In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja, Onaiyekan emphasised the shared values of both Christianity and Islam, particularly the belief in one merciful, all-powerful God.

He highlighted how both faiths held similar core principles, especially during times of fasting and prayer.

“Whether you are Christian or Muslim, we all believe in one God who is Almighty and merciful”.

Onaiyekan, noting the significance of the overlapping religious observances, highlighted that Muslims began their Ramadan on March 1, while Christians would begin their Lent on March 5 with Ash Wednesday

The cardinal urged believers to come together in prayer, fasting, and acts of charity during the unique overlap of Lent and Ramadan in 2025.

He called for unity between Christians and Muslims as they sought God’s mercy and engaged in spiritual reflection during these sacred seasons.

The cardinal acknowledged that though the two observances differ, their core principles were the same.

“Both Ramadan and Lent are times to draw closer to God, be more fervent in prayer, and help the poor.

“This year, as they coincide, it is a divine reminder for us to come together and pray for our nations,” he explained.

He also stressed the importance of religious leaders promoting unity in their communities

“Priests, bishops, and imams must encourage their followers to approach these seasons with sincerity and righteousness.

“Fasting without a genuine heart and purpose won’t lead to meaningful change,” he said.

Onaiyekan also emphasised that during this unique period, the collective prayers of faithful Muslims and Christians would be heard by God.

“This is an opportunity for us to unite in prayer for mercy and healing,” he added.(NAN)

Edited by Vivian Ihechu