By Our Reporter
Former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has described the simultaneous commencement of Lent and Ramadan as a rare and profound spiritual moment for Nigeria, urging citizens to seize the opportunity for national reflection and renewal.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, Obi said the coincidence of the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim holy month of Ramadan beginning on the same day was “a moment of extraordinary spiritual convergence” for a country he described as richly blessed but weighed down by poor leadership.
According to him, the alignment of the two sacred periods goes beyond a mere meeting of dates, symbolising shared sacrifice, reflection, and the possibility of national rebirth at a time when Nigeria’s collective identity has been strained by insecurity and economic hardship.
“It is striking that both sacred seasons are marked by fasting, prayer, and thanksgiving,” Obi stated, describing the period as a “Double Fast” and a divine invitation for Nigerians to rise above religious and ethnic differences to rediscover their shared humanity.
He noted that as millions of Christians and Muslims across the country abstain from food and devote themselves to prayer and penance, they are united in seeking God’s mercy for the healing of the nation.
Obi, however, stressed that prayer must be accompanied by concrete action, including charity towards the vulnerable, forgiveness, and self-discipline. He said the period should serve as a spiritual reset for a nation grappling with insecurity and economic challenges.
The former presidential candidate expressed hope that the rare alignment would usher in lasting peace and unity across Nigeria.
“A Holy Lent and Ramadan Kareem to all,” he said, adding that with prayers and shared resolve, “a New Nigeria is possible.”