A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress, Alhaji Yisa Ismaila Adebayo, popularly known as OMO-ADE, has extended warm greetings to Christians and Muslims across Nigeria and the diaspora as both Ramadan and Lent commence on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
In a goodwill message issued on Wednesday, the APC stalwart described the rare overlap of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and the Christian season of Lent as a powerful reminder of the nation’s shared spiritual values and the need for unity among citizens regardless of religious or ethnic differences.
Alhaji Adebayo congratulated Muslim faithful on the commencement of Ramadan, a period marked by fasting, prayer, charity, and reflection, while also acknowledging Christians observing Lent, a solemn season dedicated to repentance, sacrifice, and spiritual renewal leading up to Easter.
He noted that the simultaneous observance of both sacred periods offers Nigerians a unique opportunity to deepen interfaith understanding and promote peace, tolerance, and national cohesion. According to him, the convergence of the two seasons should inspire leaders and citizens alike to reflect on the values of compassion, humility, and service to humanity.
The APC chieftain urged Muslims to use the Ramadan period to pray for the peace, stability, and progress of the country, and encouraged Christians to embrace the lessons of Lent by promoting love, forgiveness, and generosity toward others.
He also called on political, religious, and community leaders to foster dialogue and cooperation across religious lines, stressing that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity. Adebayo emphasized that at a time when the nation faces socio-economic challenges, collective prayers and acts of goodwill can help strengthen national unity and inspire hope for a better future.
“Let this sacred period remind us that beyond our differences, we are one people with a shared destiny,” he said. “May the prayers and sacrifices of this season bring healing, prosperity, and lasting peace to our dear nation.”
Alhaji Adebayo concluded his message by wishing Muslims a spiritually rewarding Ramadan and Christians a reflective and fulfilling Lenten season, expressing hope that both observances would bring renewed commitment to peace, justice, and the common good across Nigeria and beyond.
