The Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, has called on Muslim and Christian faithful to use the sacred periods of Ramadan and Lent to make supplication to God for the state and Nigeria.
Makinde made the appeal in a statement issued on Wednesday in Ibadan by his Special Adviser, Mr Suleimon Olanrewaju.
The governor also urged Christian and Muslim faithful to use the period to deepen their commitment to God and humanity.
He said the coincidence of the two fasting seasons beginning on the same day was divinely orchestrated to remind adherents of both religions of the importance of love, unity and religious harmony.
He stressed that the lesson inherent in the development must not be lost during and after the spiritual exercise.
He commended Muslims and Christians in the state for their longstanding culture of peaceful coexistence and collaboration, noting that their support since 2019 had contributed significantly to the state’s progress.
Makinde urged adherents of both faiths to dedicate the 2026 Ramadan and Lenten period to praying for sustained peace and development in the state and the country.
He also asked the faithful to pray for wisdom and strength for leaders at all levels.
The governor assured residents that his administration would continue to prioritise their welfare and that he would continue to serve them with dedication and fairness.
The News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN) reports that Ramadan is a period where Muslims observe a month-long fast, engage in increased prayers, acts of charity, and seek spiritual renewal.
NAN also reports that Lent, observed by Christians, is a 40-day period of fasting, prayer and almsgiving leading to Easter.
