Interfaith Fast: Oluremi Tinubu Says God Is Speaking to Nigeria Through Ramadan–Lent Convergence

Interfaith Fast: Oluremi Tinubu Says God Is Speaking to Nigeria Through Ramadan–Lent Convergence

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has said the simultaneous observance of the Muslim Ramadan fast and the Christian Lenten season is a divine signal calling Nigerians to unity, peaceful coexistence, and religious tolerance.

The First Lady made the remark on Thursday while hosting an interfaith breaking of fast (Iftar/Lent) for women drawn from different sectors of society.

According to her, the coincidence of the two major religious fasting periods is a strong reminder that Nigerians must embrace harmonious living and mutual respect despite differences in faith.

She referenced the teachings of Jesus Christ, noting that the core of the laws given through Moses could be summarized in two key principles: love for God and love for one another.

Drawing from her personal experience, Senator Tinubu spoke about her nearly four decades of interfaith marriage with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as an example of peaceful religious coexistence.

She said the stability of their relationship reflects the importance of maturity, respect, and understanding in overcoming religious divisions.

The First Lady also cautioned Nigerians against attempts by some groups to exploit religion to create division in the country.

She emphasized that many Nigerian families have successfully lived together across religious lines for years without conflict, noting that unity should remain the country’s guiding principle.

Speaking further, Senator Tinubu challenged women whose spouses hold public offices or who occupy leadership positions to play active roles in promoting integrity, compassion, and excellence in public service.

She urged Nigerians to abandon a sense of entitlement and instead focus on service, responsibility, and mentoring the younger generation.

According to her, experienced citizens must pass on valuable knowledge and wisdom to youths in order to strengthen the nation’s future leadership.

In a lecture at the event titled “Serving with Excellence, Compassion and Integrity in Public Life,” Director at the National Open University of Nigeria, Prof. Ganiyat Adejoke Adesina-Uthman, highlighted what she described as a growing crisis of trust in public institutions.

She stressed that integrity remains non-negotiable for public office holders, warning that lack of integrity undermines public confidence and governance.

Also speaking, Bishop Sally William Chinebu of Dominion Church International urged women to emulate the leadership qualities of Jesus Christ, emphasizing excellence, compassion, and selfless service.

She noted that women possess immense influence and can become a powerful force for societal transformation when they lead with purpose and moral responsibility.

The event attracted several high-profile personalities including former First Lady Patience Jonathan, Wife of the Vice President Nana Shettima, Wife of former Vice President Namadi Sambo, Wife of the Senate President Mrs. Ekaette Akpabio, and Wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives Mrs. Fatima Tajudeen Abbas.

Female members of the National Assembly, judges, ministers, and other women leaders from across the country were also in attendance.