By Dennis Okechukwu
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has said the coincidence of the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim Ramadan fast this year carries a spiritual message for Nigeria, calling it a sign that God is urging the nation toward unity and peaceful coexistence.
Speaking at an interfaith breaking of fast organised for women from different sectors, the First Lady said the overlapping periods of fasting for Christians and Muslims highlight the need for Nigerians to embrace harmony and mutual respect.
According to her, the development shows that God is speaking to the country at a time when some individuals attempt to create division along religious lines.
She said the message of faith traditions is rooted in love and unity, citing the teaching of Jesus Christ that the laws of Moses can be summarised in two principles: loving God and loving one another.
Drawing from her nearly four-decade interfaith marriage to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the First Lady emphasised that peaceful coexistence between people of different religions is both possible and necessary for national stability.
She noted that despite differences in faith, mutual respect and maturity have helped sustain harmony in her marriage, adding that such attitudes should guide relationships across the country.
Mrs. Tinubu also called on women, particularly those connected to public office, to play active roles in promoting good governance and national development.
She urged Nigerians to abandon what she described as an “entitlement mentality” and instead focus on service marked by excellence, compassion and integrity.
The First Lady further stressed the importance of mentoring young people, saying experienced leaders must pass on values and wisdom to the next generation.
A Director at National Open University of Nigeria, Professor Ganiyat Adejoke Adesina-Uthman, who delivered a lecture at the event, warned of a growing crisis of trust in public service. Speaking on the theme “Serving with Excellence, Compassion and Integrity in Public Life,” she said integrity remains non-negotiable for anyone in leadership.
She noted that a lack of integrity undermines public confidence and urged officials to ensure that their character aligns with their reputation.
Also speaking, Sally William Chinebu of Dominion Church International encouraged women to lead with compassion and excellence, drawing inspiration from the life of Jesus Christ. She said women have the potential to create transformative change when they rise to serve with dedication and sincerity.
The event was attended by several prominent figures, including former First Lady Patience Jonathan, wife of the Vice President Nana Shettima, wife of former Vice President Amina Namadi Sambo, and wife of the Senate President Ekaette Akpabio, alongside female ministers, judges and members of the National Assembly.