From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has extended warm felicitations to Muslims and Christians in the state as the holy seasons of Ramadan and Lent commenced on February 18, 2026.
In a goodwill message released on Tuesday and signed by Rafiu Ajakaye, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the Governor described the rare coincidence of the two sacred fasting periods as a powerful reminder of the need for unity, peaceful coexistence and collective responsibility among people of different faiths in Kwara and across Nigeria.
According to him, the simultaneous observance of Ramadan by Muslims and Lent by Christians once again presents an opportunity for adherents of both religions to reflect on shared values of sacrifice, compassion and devotion to God.
“The fact that Ramadan and Lent are beginning on the same day again signals a need for all of mankind, regardless of creed, to work for harmony, peace, and unity,” the Governor said. “We must stand together as a united force against all forms of evil and anything that could slow down the pace of development in our state and country.”
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AbdulRazaq noted that fasting remains a spiritual exercise that goes beyond abstaining from food and drink, stressing that it is a period of deep reflection and renewed commitment to righteousness.
“Fasting opens a unique window for man to get closer to the Creator through abstention from sins, intentional giving of alms, and all forms of good deeds. It helps man to redefine his essence before the Creator,” he added.
The Governor prayed that God would accept the sacrifices and supplications of the faithful during the holy months. He also urged both Muslim and Christian communities to use the period to pray for peace, stability and sustained development in Kwara State and Nigeria.
He called on residents to support government’s efforts aimed at improving the wellbeing of the people, emphasising that spiritual renewal must go hand in hand with civic responsibility and commitment to the common good.
