RismadarVoice Reporters
February 18, 2026
Nigerian leaders have extended goodwill messages to Christians and Muslims as the Christian season of Lent and the Islamic holy month of Ramadan commence simultaneously on Wednesday, February 18, 2026.
The rare alignment of the two sacred observances has drawn messages of reflection, unity, and national renewal.
In a statement on Wednesday, former Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, described the concurrence as “a rare spiritual convergence to cherish and revere.”
He noted that for the first time in many years, both sacred seasons begin on the same day.
“This rare coincidence is far more than a meeting of dates; it is a powerful symbol of shared sacrifice, reflection, and the possibility of national renewal at a time when our collective identity has been strained by ineffective governance,” Obi said.
Highlighting that both Lent and Ramadan are marked by fasting, prayer, and thanksgiving, Obi referred to the period as a “Double Fast” and described it as a divine invitation for Nigerians to transcend differences and rediscover shared humanity.
He urged citizens to use the season not only for prayer but also for purposeful action.
“Let our fasting remind us of the suffering of our neighbours; let our prayers stand as a shield over our nation. May our sacrifices be accepted, and may this unique alignment usher in a lasting era of peace and unity across Nigeria,” he stated.
Similarly, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu extended his greetings to Muslim faithful in the state at the commencement of Ramadan.
“As the holy month begins, I want to personally wish all Muslim faithful in Lagos a time filled with peace and reflection. I pray that the weeks ahead bring you strength, clarity, and abundant blessings. Let us continue to keep one another in our prayers,” the Governor said.
Lent, observed by Christians worldwide, is a 40-day period of fasting, prayer, and penance leading up to Easter, while Ramadan is a month-long fast observed by Muslims as a time of devotion, self-discipline, and charity.
The simultaneous commencement of both seasons has been widely regarded as a moment of interfaith reflection and shared spiritual commitment across the country.
