As Christians and Muslims in Nigeria and across the world commence the sacred seasons of Lent and Ramadan, the Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Mbah, has called on Nigerians to see the rare overlap as a divine opportunity to strengthen unity, love, service, and peaceful coexistence.
Governor Mbah said the simultaneous observance of both religious seasons serves as a powerful reminder that although the modes of worship may differ, Nigerians remain bound together by shared values of faith, sacrifice, compassion, and devotion to God, which are central to both religions.
The governor made this known in his message to the people of Enugu State and Nigerians at large on Ash Wednesday. He also spoke to journalists shortly after attending a Holy Mass held to mark the beginning of the Lenten season at the Government House Chapel in Enugu.
He explained that Lent is a period that calls on Christians to engage in prayer, fasting, repentance, almsgiving, and to renew their commitment to love and service to humanity. In the same vein, he noted that Ramadan offers Muslims an opportunity for fasting, spiritual reflection, charity, and discipline.
According to him, both sacred periods emphasise self-restraint, encourage compassion for the less privileged, and inspire believers to live lives rooted in righteousness, peace, and moral responsibility.
Governor Mbah further described Ash Wednesday and the Lenten season as a time for deep reflection and moderation, reminding individuals of the temporary nature of life.
He said Ash Wednesday symbolises humanity’s origin and mortality, noting that it is a moment for sober reflection and self-evaluation. He urged leaders, workers, and citizens to use the period to examine their actions and strive to become better individuals in their various roles and responsibilities.
In his sermon, the Catholic Bishop of Enugu Diocese, Most Reverend Calistus Onaga, encouraged Christians to remain committed to the core pillars of the Lenten season, which include prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. He described these practices as essential spiritual exercises that help believers grow in faith, discipline, and service to others.
Governor Mbah Urges Unity, Love as Lent and Ramadan Begin
